Facts About Cardiac Calcium Screening

If you are worried about your heart health, experience chronic or severe heart pain, or want to consult with a licensed cardiologist, then call Cardiovascular Specialists of York to schedule an appointment or arrange a walk-in for as soon as possible.

Cardiac Calcium Screening, In Short

Cardiac calcium screening, also known as coronary calcium scan or heart scan, is a specialized imaging technique designed to detect and quantify the amount of calcium buildup in the coronary arteries.

*Calcium deposits in the coronary arteries are often indicative of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of plaque.

On the Procedure…

There are perhaps three primary things to know about the procedure. The first is that cardiac calcium screening typically involves a computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart. During the procedure, a series of X-ray images are taken to create detailed cross-sectional images of the coronary arteries.

Then, there’s the calcium scoring. The collected images are analyzed to identify and quantify any calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. A calcium score is assigned based on the density and extent of these deposits.

Finally, there’s the risk assessment. The resulting calcium score serves as a numerical indicator of the potential risk for coronary artery disease. Higher scores generally correlate with an increased likelihood of developing heart-related issues.

What Information Do We Take Away?

The primary objective of cardiac calcium screening is to assess the presence and extent of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries. Calcium deposits are a significant component of arterial plaque, and their measurement provides valuable insights into the development of coronary artery disease.

Cardiac calcium screening has the potential to detect coronary artery disease at an early stage, even before the onset of symptoms. This early detection allows for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications to mitigate the progression of the disease.

For individuals with elevated calcium scores, a cardiologist – or heart doctor – can use the information to guide treatment decisions. This may involve lifestyle modifications, medication management, or more aggressive interventions, depending on the severity of the findings.

Interpreting the Results

It's important to note that cardiac calcium screening is not a standalone diagnostic tool but rather a complementary assessment. Moreover, various guidelines exist to interpret and apply calcium scores in a clinical context. These guidelines consider factors such as age, gender, and other cardiovascular risk factors to provide a comprehensive assessment of an individual's cardiovascular risk.

It's important to not only use state-of-the-art CT scanners but also get insight from a licensed and experienced cardiologist. Residents in the area can call Cardiovascular Specialists of York to consult with a professional today.