The Imaging team at Windom Area Health performs CT Heart Scores to evaluate for calcification in the arteries of the heart. For those that are curious about what the CT portion of a heart score entails; here’s a breakdown of a CT Heart Score and the process!
A CT Heart Score takes about 5-7 minutes to perform. Our goal is to obtain a clear image of the heart and arteries that wrap around it. In order to successfully do that, we have to eliminate motion. Since the heart is beating fast, it’s important to catch the picture at just the right moment. This is similar to a camera-man at a sporting event; if you don’t have the timing right, you have a blurry image.
In order to solve that issue, the Radiology Technologist (Rad Tech) will place 4 EKG leads around the patient’s chest. Those leads monitor the patient’s heart rhythm and send that information to the CT control room computer screen. Once there, the Rad Tech will set up the scan to take the images in between heartbeats, which reduces image motion.Â
Next, just before the scan starts, the patient will be prompted by the scanner to hold their breath for a few seconds. During the breath-hold, the scanner will take the images for the heart score. Using the breath-hold further prevents any blurriness or motion on the final images. This results in clear images that can be analyzed by the Rad Tech.Â
At this point the patient will be disconnected from the leads and is able to leave the scan room. The Rad Tech will then scroll through the images transmitted to the computer and try to visualize any calcification in the arteries. The main arteries being evaluated consist of following: Left Main Coronary Artery (LCA), Left Anterior Descending Artery (LAD), Circumflex Artery (LCX) and Right Coronary Artery (RCA). If calcification is found, it will be marked or highlighted, as shown in the accompanying images. Also included are pictures of the lower lobes of the patient’s lungs, which the Radiologist will check for any abnormalities.
After the Rad Tech has marked and digitally reconstructed the patients scan, the prepared illustration can then be sent on. The final images will be sent to the Radiologist & Cardiologist for review and reporting. The Radiologist will be able to ‘page through’ the patient’s scan like chapters in a book. They can mark on the pages, or levels, on the screen where an issue is found. Depending on the findings, follow-up with the patient’s provider or a cardiology consultation may be recommended.
The heart score is a useful tool to evaluate for calcification or plaque, which can restrict the flow of blood and, if severe, could become life threatening. We are thankful to have a high quality scanner at Windom Area Health. This useful examination tool gives our patients peace of mind and also saves lives.
CT Heart Scores are currently done on Thursdays by the Windom Area Health Imaging Department. To learn more or get an appointment scheduled, call 507-831-2400 today!
By Taylor Rossow, Radiology Technologist