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CT Medical Examination for Patients at Risk of Suffering a Heart Attack
Determining Your Risk
of a Heart Attack
Any of the following factors can
greatly increase your risk of a heart attack.
A high
cholesterol level
High
triglyceride values
Smoking
High blood
pressure
A family
history of heart disease
Diabetes
A
sedentary life style in combination with any of the above.
Benefit from Early Diagnosis
If you are at
risk, early diagnosis is one of the most effective weapons you
have against heart disease. It can ensure timely measures are
taken to reduce your risk and get you started on the follow-up
treatment necessary to prevent its onset.
Sarasota
Memorial’s dual source Definition CT can
help
provide that early diagnosis. It will not only tell you the level of
calcium in your coronary arteries – a known predictor of risk for
a heart attack – but also indicate the presence of plaque that
causes narrowing the arteries that supply blood to the heart, one
of the major causes of heart attacks.
What to Expect
During Your CT Exam
The dual source Definition CT performs
two types of heart exams – calcium scoring and angiography of the coronary
vessels. Both are non-invasive and painless and require no
preparation. Your doctor will determine which best suits your
needs.
Calcium Scoring
Usually
performed in approximately 15 seconds, this test determines the
level of calcium in the arteries. A positive coronary calcium
score serves as an indicator of risk for certain types of heart
attack, while a negative score is a good indicator that coronary
vessels are intact.
CT-Angiography of the Coronary
Vessels
This highly
detailed examination uses a contrast medium injected in a brachial
vein to enhance anatomical cavities and vessels. ECG electrodes
are positioned on the chest that synchronize the scanner with the
heart rate. This “virtual trip of the heart” – which takes only 20
seconds - provides a complete 3D scan that provides your doctor
with precise information about the condition of your coronary
vessels.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you’re at risk of a heart attack and interested in having a CT
examination for early diagnosis, please contact your family
doctor. He’ll provide you with a recommendation based on your
medical history and answer any questions you may have about CT.
Sarasota Memorial's Institute for
Advanced Medicine: 941-917-5111
5880 Rand Boulevard Sarasota, FL 34238
