Heart Scan Procedure

A heart scan, also known as a cardiac CT scan or coronary calcium scan, is a non-invasive medical imaging test used to evaluate the health of the heart and its blood vessels.

Purpose

The primary purpose of a heart scan is to:

• Detect and measure the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries, which can indicate the presence of plaque buildup and potential blockages.
• Assess the risk of heart disease and cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for heart disease.

Types of Heart Scans

There are several types of heart scans, including:

• Coronary Calcium Scan: uses computed tomography (CT) to detect and measure calcium in the coronary arteries.
• Coronary CT Angiogram: uses CT to produce detailed images of the coronary arteries and detect any blockages or narrowing.
• Cardiac MRI: uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to produce detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels.

Procedure

The procedure for a heart scan typically involves:

• Lying on a table that slides into the CT scanner or MRI machine.
• Removing any metal objects, such as jewelry or glasses.
• Wearing a gown and lying still during the scan.
• The scan taking around 10-30 minutes to complete.

Risks and Complications

Risks and complications associated with heart scans include:

• Allergic reactions to contrast dyes used in some scans.
• Radiation exposure from CT scans.
• Claustrophobia or anxiety during the scan.

Results and Follow-up

The results of a heart scan are typically provided by a radiologist or cardiologist, who will:

• Interpret the images and provide a report on any findings.
• Discuss the results with the patient and recommend any further testing or treatment.

Preparation

To prepare for a heart scan, patients should:

• Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the scan.
• Wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing metal objects.
• Inform their doctor of any medical conditions or allergies.