Coronary artery calcification is a common incidental finding in asymptomatic patients having CT of the thorax for non-cardiac indications as well as being a significant finding in cardiac CT.
The goal of cardiac CT scan for calcium scoring is to determine if CAD is present and to what extent, even if there are no symptoms. It is a screening study that may be recommended by a physician for patients with risk factors for CAD but no clinical symptoms.
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam.
Metal objects, including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and hairpins should be left at home or removed prior to your exam. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work. Women will be asked to remove bras containing metal underwire. You may be asked to remove any piercings, if possible.
You should inform the technologist if you have a pacemaker.
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for a few hours beforehand, especially if a contrast material will be used in your exam.
You should inform your physician of all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies.
Inform your doctor of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and kidney disease or thyroid problems.
Women should always inform their physician and the CT technologist if there is any possibility that they may be pregnant.
Your diet will be restricted to clear liquids the day before the examination
Be sure to inform your physician if you have heart, liver or kidney disease to be certain that the bowel prep will be safe.
