Heart Scan/Coronary Calcium Scoring

Pink Area in Center Demonstrate Calcium in Coronary Arteries of Heart

Are you at risk for heart disease? There is a non-invasive test available called Coronary Calcium Scoring (also referred to as a Heart Scan) that can evaluate your risk in less than an hour.

 

 

 

Coronary Calcium Scoring Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I get a scan?

  • Coronary Calcium Scoring is a test that will tell you your risk of developing coronary artery disease.
  • Coronary Calcium Scoring is a better predictor of coronary events than cholesterol screening or other non-invasive tests.
  • The information from the scan can assist your doctor with more information to manage your disease.

Who should get a scan?

Anyone with multiple risk factors such as: family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, stressful lifestyle, men over 35, postmenopausal women, sedentary lifestyle.

How do I get a scan?

Get a written order from your doctor or call McAllen Heart Surgeons 956-630-9430 for a referral.  The test costs only $89.00.

What is involved with the test?

  • The test is performed on a Computed Tomography(CT) machine. While holding your breath the CT machine takes a series of pictures (X-rays) of your heart that will take approximately 20 seconds.
  • There is no preparation required and the test is painless.
  • The results are reviewed with you by a board certified radiologist.
  • You are given your score and your risk of having a heart attack.
  • The results are then forwarded to your referring physician.

Does insurance cover this procedure?

Not necessarily, but the test costs only $99.00.  Contact your insurance company to find out more information regarding your coverage.

Heart Disease Risk Factors

If you answer yes to any of the statements listed below, you may be at risk for heart disease.

  • You have a family history of heart disease.
  • You have a total cholesterol greater than 200 mg/dl.
  • You have hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • You use tobacco.
  • You have diabetes.
  • You are physically inactive.
  • You are overweight.
  • You are a male over age 35.
  • You are a postmenopausal female.

Facts about Heart Disease

  • Heart disease is the number one killer for men and women.
  • Cardiovascular disease accounts for 1 death every 34 seconds.
  • Approximately 50% of heart attacks occur in people with no previous history of heart disease.
  • 50% of men and 64% of women who die suddenly of heart disease have no previous symptoms.
  • 35% of people with heart disease have a normal cholesterol level.
  • Approximately 33% of all initial heart attacks are fatal.
  • This year approximately 700,000 Americans will have a new heart attack, and approximately 500,000 will have a recurring attack.
  • Almost 150,000 Americans killed by cardiovascular disease each year are under age 65.

    References: American Heart Association; The Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics 2004 Update.