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Heart scans
A heart scan, or coronary artery calcium scoring, is a fast, painless screening test that assesses heart attack risk using the latest multislice computerized tomography (CT) imaging technology.
Heart scans detect calcium buildup in the coronary arteries before symptoms appear. By detecting these buildups in the earliest, most treatable stages, patients can take necessary steps to reduce heart disease risk.
What to expect
There is no specific preparation for the exam, such as fasting or injections. Continue taking all your medications.
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You will be lying comfortably on the exam table for about five minutes. Scanning takes only seconds. You will be asked to hold your breath for seconds during the scanning.
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Scans are painless, and there is little radiation exposure.
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You will not need to take off your clothes, unless they contain metal, such as snaps. You may be asked to remove any jewelry.
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Electrocardiogram leads will be placed on your chest to synchronize the scan with your heartbeats.
Commonly asked questions
Who should have a heart scan?Women and men more than age 40, should consider a heart scan if they have one or more risk factors:
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a family history of heart disease
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smoking
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obesity
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high cholesterol
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high blood pressure
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physical inactivity
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diabetes
Heart scans are not recommended for people who have previously been diagnosed with heart disease.
What does a coronary artery calcium score mean?Finding calcium in your coronary arteries means you have early atherosclerotic plaque in your coronary arteries. These plaques could – without treatment of risk factors – rupture or progress to serious coronary artery blockages.
A heart scan for coronary artery calcium scoring does NOT:
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predict a heart attack definitely will occur
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provide a detailed map of coronary artery narrowing
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serve as a substitute for a coronary angiogram or stress test predict which artery is likely to rupture and cause a heart attack
What is the cost of testing?Cost of coronary artery calcium scoring is $250. It may not be covered by your insurance provider. All patients are required to sign an Advance Beneficiary Notice (ABN) before the screening. That means if insurance does not cover the screening, the patient is responsible for the cost. Before you schedule an appointment, check with your insurance company to see if the scan is a covered service.
To find a map, directions and payment information, download “Your heart scan at Park Nicollet” (PDF)
For more information on coronary artery calcium scoring, download “What you need to know” (PDF)
Preparing for your heart scan (PDF)
To schedule appointments, call 952-993-9800. For more information, call 952-993-8290.
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