Coronary calcium score testing uses a specialised scan of the heart to assess the presence of hard calcium deposits, or calcified plaque, in the arteries of the heart. The presence or build-up of calcified plaque can obstruct blood flow and increase the risk of heart-related conditions including chest pain and heart attack.
Calcium score scans are a key tool we use to identify the potential risk to patients of heart disease and as an indicator of overall cardiovascular health. Where patients have high cholesterol levels, a family history of heart disease, or other risk factors, a coronary calcium test can be particularly useful as a tool that assists in identifying their overall risk of cardiovascular disease.
What to expect if you need to have a Coronary Calcium Scan
A calcium scoring scan is a painless and non-invasive procedure, which involves no specific preparations by patients. Typically, the examination takes about 5 minutes to complete and involves the following steps:
- When you arrive at Imaging Associates, you will be asked to change into a gown which covers you from the waist up.
- Three ECG leads will be placed on your back, and you will be asked to lie down on the examination table with your arms positioned above your head.
- You will then be guided in and out of the scanner by the radiologist and asked to hold your breath for approximately 10 seconds. The scan itself should only take about 5 minutes.
- After the scan is completed, you can get dressed and resume your normal activities.
Data from the coronary calcium scan is then analysed by a specialist radiologist to generate a Calcium Percentile score, which indicates the amount of calcium present in your coronary arteries relative to your age and gender. This information is included in the radiologist’s report which will be provided to your referring physician.
Are there any risks associated with a Coronary Calcium Scan?
Patients should be aware that a coronary calcium scan uses X-rays and there is a small amount of risk associated with radiation exposure during the procedure.
The amount of radiation a patient receives varies as a result of different body types. Our clinical team will always talk about risk versus benefit prior to you undertaking the scan. Some patients who are extremely claustrophobic may find it challenging to tolerate being in the scanner. Our state-of-the-art low-dose CT scanners are fast and can produce extremely high quality images quickly, with a calcium score scan typically taking 5 minutes.
Our staff will do everything they can to ensure that scans are conducted without unnecessary delay and that patients are made to feel as comfortable as possible before and during the procedure.
Benefits and uses of Calcium Scoring
A calcium score test offers several potential benefits in terms of early detection and prevention of heart disease. By identifying calcified plaque in the coronary arteries, your doctor can assess your cardiovascular risk and in consultation with you, make informed decisions about the need for further investigation or treatment. Patients with high calcium scores may be referred to a cardiovascular specialist for additional evaluation or prescribed medication to lower their cardiovascular risk.
Advancements in Calcium Scoring
Imaging Associates remains committed to remaining at the forefront of technological and research based advancements in the delivery of the highest standard of care for our patients. Calcium CT Scans will continue to advance as an accurate and effective indicator of cardiovascular health and as an important risk assessment tool.
If as part of taking proactive steps towards safeguarding or improving your cardiovascular health, you require a coronary calcium score scan, please contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Book a Coronary Calcium Score
Calcium score services in Melbourne are available at our flagship Box Hill clinic, as well as one of our regional clinics in Drouin.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment or to learn more about our Calcium score services.
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Imaging Associates Box Hill offers premium radiology services and personalised care, catering to patients and referring clinicians in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne.
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Imaging Associates Drouin, previously known as Baw Baw Radiology is a comprehensive radiology clinic offering locally based, high-quality medical imaging services to the Gippsland area.
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