CORONARY ARTERY CALCIUM SCORING

 If you have risk factors for heart disease, consider consulting your physician about a new heart health screening available at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. This special test measures the hardening of the heart’s arteries, a leading indicator of heart disease and heart attacks.

The test uses non-invasive, high-speed CT imaging technology to scan the heart and measure calcium deposits along the walls of the arteries. The higher the score the greater calcium is present and the greater your likelihood of having a debilitating or deadly heart attack. Knowing your risk can help you and your doctor prevent a heart attack.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • This test is best for people who have one or more of the following risk factors.
  • Family history of heart disease
  • High levels of cholesterol
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Male over the age of 45 or female over the age of 55

There are just two things to do in order to access the CACS test.

  1. Consult your insurance provider regarding whether the test is covered. If not, the cost of the test is just $100 when you pay on the day of your visit. A $25 fee for reading the test will be billed.
  2. Obtain a referral from your primary care physician. A scheduler will call you to schedule the test.
  1. The imaging technologist will ask you to remove all your jewelry and metal items.
  2. You may not be required to change your clothes.
  3. You’ll be asked to lie on an examination table, and sensors, placed on your chest, will synchronize the scan with your heart beat.
  4. The scan takes about 5 minutes and is painless.
  5. Your doctor will provide your results and make recommendations for follow-up care.

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