Frequently Asked Questions About Coronary Calcium CT Scan

A Coronary Calcium CT Scan is a non-invasive test similar to an X-ray, used to image the heart and detect and quantify calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This is a screening used by physicians for early detection of coronary artery disease (CAD).

What does it detect?

The scan will detect the volume and density of coronary calcium deposits in the patient's coronary arteries.

Where can I have this done?

This service is currently offered at Hoag Hospital.

Call 800/309-XRAY(9729) to schedule an appointment.

How do I pay for the screening?

Hoag is currently offering the procedure on a cash-only basis. Payment is due at time of service and is not reimbursable by insurance.

Who should get the procedure?

A Coronary Calcium Detection CT Scan is appropriate for men 40 to 65 years old, and women 45 to 70 years old without symptoms of heart disease and with at least one of the traditional risk factors for coronary artery disease. The risk factors include family history of coronary artery disease, hypertension, smoking, borderline high cholesterol and diabetes.

Is there anyone for whom this is not advised?

If you have already been diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease, you must be referred by a physician and are not eligible for this promotion. Known cardiac disease includes previous myocardial infarction (MI), bypass surgery, or intervention (PTCA/Stent/Atherectomy).

Is there anything else I need to know about how the test will be done?

The CT scan takes less than five minutes. The procedure is similar to an X-ray, and is done while the patient, fully clothed, lays on a scan bed. The appointment itself will take approximately 20 minutes.

What kind of follow-up information will I receive?

Once the scan has been completed, it will be evaluated by a Hoag cardiologist and a radiologist who will determine your Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) score. You will receive a risk assessment report complete with test scores, risk stratification tables, a summary of findings, and educational materials. The cardiologist will work with you to establish a plan to reduce the risk of Coronary Artery Disease.

When can I expect my test results?

Results will be mailed to you within three weeks.

What happens if I get a positive result indicating there is calcium present in my arteries?

The results will be forwarded to your cardiologist. If you do not have one, a Hoag cardiologist will read the results and develop a treatment plan and follow-up testing.

If I have calcium in my coronary arteries, does it mean that I have CAD?

No. Calcium naturally occurs at higher levels in individuals as they age. Your cardiologist will follow up with testing, possibly including treadmill exercise, cardiac ultrasound or heart catheterization to determine whether or not there is Coronary Artery Disease.