Radiology Group | Exam Descriptions

Imaging Excellence in the Quad Cities Since 1945

CT (computed tomography) is a highly specialized x-ray examination performed by a CT scanner and computer. CT provides more highly detailed images of the body's tissues and vessels than conventional x-rays.

A CT cardiac calcium scoring exam (or Heart Score™ Test) detects and measures the buildup of calcium and plaque inside the arteries of the heart. Calcium is a common component of plaque and a marker of coronary artery disease (CAD). Plaque causes major arteries of the heart to become narrow or closed off, blocking the flow of blood to the heart. The result is chest pain - or heart attack.

The result of a CT cardiac scoring exam is expressed as a calcium "score" ranging from 0 to 400+. The lower your score, the healthier your heart. Higher scores indicate the need for lifestyle changes or other preventive measures in order to decrease your risk of CAD. CT cardiac calcium scoring detects CAD at an early stage when people at risk for heart disease do not yet have symptoms. The exam does not require a doctor's referral or order and you may order the test yourself. However, we strongly encourage you to discuss the results with your physician.

Men ages 45-70 and women age 55-70, or those with any of the following risk factors:

Family history of heart disease
History of smoking
Diabetes
High cholesterol
High blood pressure
Overweight
High Stress Levels

Pregnant women.
People with known coronary artery disease or those who have had a coronary bypass procedure.
People with resting heart rates greater than 90-95 beats per minute.

No preparation is required. There are no shots, treadmills, or contrast dye involved.

You may wear your street clothes for the exam. A Radiologic Technologist will place small monitoring patches (electrodes) to your chest to match your heartbeat to the scanner. You will lie on your back as the bed moves through the center of the scanner and images of your heart are generated and the amount of calcium (if any) is measured.

You will be in the CT exam suite approximately 5 minutes. The entire scan itself lasts only a few seconds while you hold your breath.

A Radiologist analyzes and interprets your exam within 24 hours. He/she dictates a Report of the findings. You will receive a copy of the Report from our office along with a letter explaining the results. Based upon the results, you may be advised to follow up with your physician or cardiologist. A Radiology Group nurse will call you to assure you've received your Report and to answer any questions you may have. At your request we will send a copy of the Report to your physician.

This screening exam is not currently covered by major health insurance plans. The out-of-pocket cost is $100 with payment due at the time of service. Cash, personal checks, visa, MasterCard and Discover cards are accepted.

Contact us at (563) 359-3931 and ask to speak with our nurse.

Download the Heart Score™ Test Patient Brochure (PDF)
www.radiologyinfo.com

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