One of the most-relied upon procedures doctors use to identify calcium-filled plaque in the heart’s arteries is through a coronary calcium scan, better known as a heart scan. The results of these scans can help doctors as they assist their patients in reaching optimal health, whether that is through medical treatments or lifestyle changes.
The purpose of heart scans
Coronary calcium scans are performed to help doctors identify the possibility of heart disease in patients and to help guide doctors in deciding on appropriate treatment strategies, which include medication and lifestyle changes. The scans are made using multislice computerised tomography, a specialised X-ray that captures multiple images of the heart and possible plaque build-up, which is made up of cholesterol and calcium, among other substances. The build-up of plaque in the heart’s arteries occurs over time and restricts the flow of blood to the heart’s muscles, putting excess strain on the heart. When the build-up is left unchecked, it can burst and release blood clots, which, in turn, can lead to a heart attack.
When to be cautious
Heart scans are not always the answer and there are various cases in which their use is not advised. Due to the radiation exposure that comes with any X-ray procedure (which is safe in most cases), the use of heart scans should be used only when their results will prove most beneficial.
Because of this, they are not generally used in the following instances:
- Because calcium detection is unlikely in younger persons, men under 40 and women under 50 gain little benefit.
- When a person is not at high risk and have no family history of heart attacks, heart scans are not necessary.
- If a person is already known to be at risk of heart disease, the procedure would prove redundant as it will not provide any new information.
- The presence of symptoms relating to coronary artery disease also makes the necessity of a heart scan redundant, as it will provide no further useful information.
With the popularity of “walk-in” radiology clinics, where procedures such as coronary calcium scans can be conducted without a referral from a doctor, the risks of unnecessary radiation exposure are a very real concern. As the results of these scans cannot be used as a solitary guideline, their benefit in isolation is negligible, and should be completed only when advised by a doctor. Another factor to keep in mind is that “walk-in” radiology treatments may not be covered by insurance schemes and could leave you responsible for covering extensive costs unnecessarily.
What to expect
Since every patient’s circumstances are unique, always enquire about special instructions when making an appointment. In most cases, you will be asked to avoid caffeine and smoking for at least four hours before the procedure. During the procedure, you will be required to wear a medical gown and remove all clothing and jewellery above the waist.
Once you are ready, sensors that connect to an electrocardiogram (ECG) will be attached to your chest. These sensors capture images of your heart in its relaxed state between heartbeats. Throughout the procedure, you will lie on your back as the moveable table you are lying on moves through the CT scanner. Note that your head will not enter the tubelike apparatus of the scanner. During the procedure, you will be asked to lie as still as possible, relax, and hold your breath when indicated by the technician. In its entirety, the procedure should take no more than 10 to 15 minutes, after which you can go about your day without the fear of side effects.
Going forward
Heart scan results are most commonly given in the form of an Agatston score, which measures both calcium deposits and calcium density. This means that the lower the score, the lower the possibility of risk. A score of between 100 and 300 indicates the presence of moderate plaque build-up, while a score of above 300 indicates a severe risk of heart disease.
These results will help guide the discussion of possible treatment strategies, which may include changes in medication, lifestyle changes, or additional tests. Heart scans can prove greatly beneficial when it relates to the decision of treatments that lessen the risk of heart disease. They should, however, only be conducted when it will prove most beneficial. It is thus important for patients to consult their doctors beforehand and work together towards an optimal treatment plan.
This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE).