CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring, Hudson Valley

CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring, Hudson Valley Radiology Associates

What is CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring?

A CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring is a unique heart-focused CT scan designed to detect calcium deposits within the heart's arteries. These deposits can lead to artery narrowing and decreased blood flow to the heart. By identifying calcium buildup, the scan can potentially reveal coronary artery disease even before symptoms arise.

The results of a CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring play a crucial role in assessing the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Health care providers may utilize these results to formulate or adjust treatment strategies for coronary artery disease.

Who is a Candidate For
CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring?

  • Between the ages of 40 and 70
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Smoking or second-hand exposure
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • High stress
  • Sedentary lifestyle

How to Prepare For a
CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring?

Follow your physician's medication instructions and the imaging center's preparation guidance.

  • You should continue to take your usual medications, but should avoid caffeine and smoking for four hours prior to the exam.
  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your exam. You may need to change into a gown for the procedure.

How is a CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring Procedure Performed?

  • You will wear a gown, but likely no other clothes.
  • You will lie on your back on the CT table and EKG electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate. The CT table will move in very small increments every few seconds and take pictures.
  • You may be asked to hold your breath for 20-30 seconds, and you will need to hold perfectly still. Even though you will be left alone in the room, the technologist will watch you through a window, and you will be able to speak to him or her.
  • The scan takes approximately 20-30 seconds, but from start to finish it takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

What to Expect After a CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring?

You can leave immediately and resume normal activities. Your exam will be read by a board-certified, sub-specialized radiologist. Results will be sent to your ordering health care provider.

Insurance For CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring At Hudson Valley Radiology Associates

Please check with your insurance health care provider to determine if calcium scoring exams are covered and if prior authorization is needed. If they are not covered or prior authorization is not obtained, a discounted fee of $110 is due at the time of service. *Physician Referral Required

Hudson Valley Radiology Associates has CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring at the majority of our locations across the Hudson Valley, making it easier for you to access this important screening exam. Schedule your next CT Cardiac Calcium Scoring exam at Hudson Valley Radiology Associates.