The Coronary Artery Scan (Electron Beam Computed Tomography)
Coronary Artery Scanning is the most sensitive test for determining the presence
and extent of the atherosclerotic process. A Coronary Artery Scan is capable of detecting
and measuring calcium deposits (plaque build-up) in the major coronary arteries.
The procedure takes less than l0 minutes and is painless and non-invasive (no needles
or injections).
The scan produces 30-40 images of the heart. Each image is taken in l00 milliseconds,
approximately l0 times faster than the standard CT scan. The amount of x-ray dosage
is approximately equal to one abdominal x-ray.
Three electrodes will be attached to you to obtain the images at the proper cycling
of your heartbeat. You will be instructed to hold your breath for short periods of
time to eliminate respiratory motion. All images are analyzed by qualified radiologists
and cardiologists for the presence of calcification in your coronary arteries. These
results are then forwarded to you if you are a self-referred patient or to your physician
if you are a physician-referred patient.
HeartScan Imaging's program is designed for symptom-free men and women who fit the
following criteria:
Men, aged 40-65 and Women, aged 45-70 with at least one other risk factor*
*Risk Factors: Diabetes, cigarette smoking, overweight, family history of coronary
artery disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure.
Notes:
Medicare patients and patients not meeting age criteria require a physician's
referral.
The weight limit for patients is 300 pounds.
To avoid unnecessary testing and procedures, patients who have a diagnosis of
coronary artery disease or currently are under the care of a physician for treatment
of a cardiac problem are required to have a physician's referral.
