radprax-Information Center

Information on Examinations

Information for the Vascular Calcification Score

This procedure determines whether the coronary arteries show signs of calcification. The degree of calcification is quantified and can thus be used to estimate the risk of heart attack. Computer tomography (CT) is an imaging technique like the X-ray, but the CT can also create layered images of your body. In this case, the images are created of your cardiac vessels.

This examination takes just a few seconds. You will not need to take medicine or a contrast agent. A special low-dosage mode will be used for the images in order to minimize the risks posed by radiation.

Illustration 9: Calcified coronary vessels

Information for the CT Coronary Angiogram

In this examination, comprehensive images will be created of your heart and cardiac vessels.

Illustration 10: Depiction of the cardiac vessels

Illustration 11: Depiction of the coronary arteries

The CT coronary angiogram is not only well-suited for estimating your risk of heart attack— for patients with undetermined heart symptoms it can also substitute a diagnostic examination with a heart catheter.

radprax is proud to have access to computer tomography with the most modern technology used to identify possible growth of soft-plaques at an early stage. Known as the Siemens Somatom Definition, an examination with this machine not only poses less risk to patients and takes less time than an exam using an invasive heart catheter, but it yields better results as well. Radiation exposure is kept at a minimum, at about 7 mSev. In comparison, the radiation exposure during a heart catheter exam measures about 10 mSev.

The Examination Procedure

During the examination you will lie on your back on the examination table and in a relaxed position. The examination will take about 5-10 minutes. Electrodes will be used in this special examination for EKG monitoring. While a contrast agent is not necessary for the vascular calcification score itself, it is necessary to administer a contrast agent for the CT angiography. In case of anxiety you will be given a sedative.