Advanced Imaging Techniques

A coronary calcium score is a type of computed tomography (CT) scan that is used to measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. The calcium can build up on the walls of the arteries, forming plaque. Plaque can narrow or block the arteries, which can reduce blood flow to the heart and increase the risk of heart attack.

Why is a coronary calcium score done?

A coronary calcium score may be done for a variety of reasons, including:

• To assess the risk of coronary heart disease in people with no symptoms of heart disease
• To guide the management of cardiovascular risk factors when traditional risk scoring tools are insufficient to adequately risk stratify patients.

How is a coronary calcium score done?

A coronary calcium score is a non-invasive test, meaning that no needles or surgery are involved. During the test, you will lie on a table while the CT scanner rotates around you. The CT scanner will take multiple X-ray images of your chest.

The test usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Risks of a coronary calcium score

A coronary calcium score is a very safe test. However, there is a small risk of radiation exposure. The amount of radiation exposure is very low and is considered safe for most people.

Talk to your doctor about whether a coronary calcium score is right for you.