|
What is a Computed Tomography Scan (CT
Scan)? What is a Cardiac Score using CT scan?
In conventional x-rays, a beam of energy is aimed at the part of the body
being studied. A plate behind the body part captures the variations of the energy
beam after it passes through skin, bone, muscle, and other tissue. While much
information can be obtained from a regular x-ray, specific detail about internal
organs and other structures is not available.
During a computed tomography scan (CT scan), the x-ray beam moves in a circle
around the body. This allows for many different views of the same organ or
structure, and provides much greater detail. The x-ray information is sent to a
computer which interprets the x-ray data and displays it in 2-dimensional form on
a monitor. While many images are taken during a CT scan, less radiation is
received by the patient than during a single standard x-ray, in many cases.
CT scans may be done with or without contrast. "Contrast" refers to a substance
taken by mouth or injected into an intravenous line that causes the particular
organ or tissue being studied to be seen more clearly. If your physician
schedules you for a CT scan of the heart or chest, you may need to be NPO
(fasting, or nothing by mouth) for four hours prior to the procedure if contrast
dye will be used. Your physician will provide specific instructions.
You will need to let your physician know if you have ever had a reaction to any
contrast dye, or if you are allergic to iodine or seafood. If you are pregnant or
think you may be pregnant, you should notify your physician. If you are
claustrophobic or tend to become anxious easily, tell your physician ahead of
time, as he/she may prescribe a mild sedative for you before the procedure to
make you more comfortable. It will be necessary for you to remain still and quiet
during the procedure, which may last 30 to 60 minutes.
What is a Cardiac Score using CT scan?
Cardiac scoring by Medical Center Diagnostics (MCD) is a fast, convenient and painless computed tomography CT exam. It quantifies the amount of calcification
present in your coronary arteries by converting it into a score. Researchers have found that high scores are extremely
predictive of coronary artery disease and heart failure. Regardless of your score, always discuss your test results with
your physician.
What is YOUR Score?
Coronary artery disease, also known as atherosclerosis, occurs when the
arteries that carry blood and oxygen to the heart become clogged with plaque. The plaque
buildup slows the flow of blood to the heart muscle, which can cause a condition called ischemia that leads to the chance
of heart failure.
How is the test done?
During your exam, you will simply lie on the CT couch as it slowly moves into the ring-shaped scanner,
which takes an image, or picture, of your beating heart while you hold your breath for approximately 20 seconds. The procedure
requires no injections, treadmills or preparation such as fasting. The results of your test will be sent to you, and at your
request, your physician for further consultation.
What does your score mean?
If your score is 0:
Your probability of having significant coronary artery disease is minimal. If you are a man
under the age of 55 or a woman under the age of 60, you may wish to repeat the test every five years. Be sure to share the results
with your physician and discuss any lifestyle modifications required for continued good health.
If your score is positive but less than 100:
Cardiac scoring by MCD has detected calcified plaque in the arteries
of your heart, but it is unlikely to be causing a narrowing at this time. Along with your physician, you should assess your cardiac risk
factors and initiate appropriate preventive measures.
If your score is between 101 and 400:
Cardiac scoring by MCD has detected a considerable amount of calcified plaque in the arteries
of your heart. While this is not a medical emergency, you have an increased risk of a future heart attack. Make an appointment
to see a doctor for a full assessment of your cardiac risk factors.
If your score is greater than 400:
Cardiac scoring by MCD has detected extensive calcified plaque in your coronary arteries, which may have critical narrowing.
You are at increased risk of a heart attack. Make an appointment to see your doctor soon. Based on your physician's recommendations,
you should begin treatment immediately to reduce your risk of a heart attack.
|
