What is a
Calcium Scan?
A
Heart-ScanTM or Dual-Source CT Coronary Angiogram
of the heart allows the rapid detection of heart disease in
its earliest stages. A specialised CT scanner is used to
detect levels of coronary calcium accumulating in the
arteries. Levels of coronary calcium are an indication of
the presence of heart disease.
How do I know
if I need the test?
If you have any of the major risk factors of heart disease
you may benefit from a Calcium Scan. Please speak to our
Medical Team or your doctor for further advice.
How do I
prepare for the test?
No preparation is needed for the scan. No fasting, gowns or
needles.
What
will happen during the test?
You will be taken into the scanning room and asked to lie
down on the scanning bed. Our radiographer will tell you
when the scan is about to commence. You will be asked to
hold your breath for a few seconds and then you simply lie
on our scanning table while we acquire pictures of your
heart.
What will the
test result tell me?
You will be presented with a report and a calcium score
which will tell you the presence or progress of heart
disease.
What happens
next?
Depending on the presence of mild, moderate or high levels
of coronary calcium you will receive recommendation on
whether further tests are needed and how to manage existing
disease. You should have a repeat scan every 2 years to
monitor the progress of calcium accumulation and detect
heart disease at its earliest stages.
What is the
Heart-Scan advantage?
-
Quicker scan
-
Better image quality
-
Lower radiation dose
Heart Disease
