Coronary Calcium Analysis & Risk Management
Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scoring uses a Computed Tomography (CT) x-ray scan to screen for calcified plaque, and is a non-invasive way of obtaining information about the extent of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries. Many patients can be asymptomatic with significant non-obstructive disease but still be at high risk. The amount of calcification (expressed at the CAC Score) has advantages over other methods for the prediction of heart attack, as detailed in the recent publication by Dr Stephen Fenton from Bligh Cardiology*. Furthermore, a unique Personal Risk-Profile Calculator developed by Dr Fenton helps to identify patients who will most benefit from having a Coronary Calcium Scan.
The Scan is Quick and Safe
A CT coronary calcium score is a safe, simple, and painless test performed in an x-ray facility. There are no injections, no dye and therefore no chance of an allergic or anaphylactic reaction. It involves a short breath-hold and has no complications. There is a tiny amount of radiation very similar to a mammogram. In fact, it has been likened to a “mammogram of the heart”. It measures calcium which is a reliable marker of plaque or “atherosclerosis” in males above 45 years and females above 55 years but also may be helpful in young patients at risk.
Who Will Benefit Most from a Calcium Score? – Find out Your Risk
Use our online Personal Risk-Profile Calculator here (developed by Bligh Cardiology) and get immediate results on whether a CAC scan is recommended. If the Risk Profile Score is considered ‘high’ a CAC scan is strongly recommended. If the CAC is abnormal Bligh Cardiology offers Coronary Calcium Analysis & Risk Management services.
