Cardiac Scoring

What is Cardiac Scoring?
Cardiac Scoring is a simple test that determines your risk for developing heart disease long before any signs or symptoms are visible. Using a high-speed CT scanner, physicians can detect calcium deposits in the coronary artery and then assess your chances of developing heart disease.

The high-tech scanning equipment makes the test quick, easy and completely noninvasive. The entire exam takes about 10 minutes.

How does it work?
A CT scanner captures a series of images showing hardening of the arteries. These images help doctors locate any area where calcium buildup is present. A computer then calculates the quantity of the calcium and gives the test result a "score." This score ranks patients according to their risk, ranging from normal to extremely high.

When will I know the results?
Results of the test are faxed to your referring physician.

If, after receiving the results, you would like more information on reducing your risk factors for heart disease, you may talk with your physician or call Presbyterian Novant Heart & Wellness at 704-384-5043.

Schedule a Cardiac Scoring Test
Call 704-384-SCAN (7226) to schedule an appointment. A physician referral is required.

More Information on Heart Disease
Coronary heart disease, or atherosclerosis, is known as "the silent killer." It occurs when arteries that carry blood and oxygen to the heart become clogged by calcium deposits. The deposits, called plaque, decrease the flow of blood to the heart and increase the likelihood of a sudden heart attack.

Traditionally, a stress test was one of the most commonly used tools for diagnosing coronary artery disease. However, these tests typically will not detect artery blockages of less than 50 percent. Studies have shown that more than half of all heart attacks occur in persons with a blockage of less than 50 percent.

Locations
Presbyterian Hospital
Presbyterian Hospital Matthews
Presbyterian Hospital Huntersville
Presbyterian Imaging & Breast Center Ballantyne
Presbyterian Imaging & Breast Center Monroe
Presbyterian Imaging & Breast Center Museum
Presbyterian Imaging & Breast Center University
Presbyterian Imaging Center South Park
Presbyterian Imaging Center Steele Creek

Cardiac Scoring CT Preparation Instructions
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. Please do not exercise, smoke or drink caffeinated beverages eight hours prior to your exam.

Cardiac Scoring CT Procedure

You will be escorted into the CT scan room by the technologist.

You will lie on your back on the table with your feet entering the scanner and your arms resting above your head. EKG leads will be placed on your chest.

After getting you into position, the technologist will leave the room and program the CT scanner to record images.

A programmed voice will give you breathing instructions, and you will be advanced in and out of the scanner as it obtains the images.

The CT scan will last approximately 10 minutes. Once the scan is complete, the leads will be removed, and you will be free to leave.