What is CTCS?
CT Calcium Scoring (CTCS) is a non-invasive assessment of coronary arteries. Using a CT scanners, this examination can produce images of the coronary arteries to determine if they are blocked or narrowed by the build-up of calcified plaque. This is a marker for coronary artery disease or atherosclerosis. The findings are provided as a calcium score, and the information learned from this scan can help clinicians evaluate whether you are at an increased risk for heart attack. This test is also known as coronary artery calcium scoring.
CTCS is offered at select Alpenglow Australia clinics.
It is essential that you have a low and steady heart rate during your CTCS scan, so please avoid the following before your scan:
- Products containing caffeine, including tea, coffee, decaf tea and coffee products, soft drinks, and chocolate, for 24 hours
- Viagra, Cialis, or any medication used for erectile dysfunction for 72 hours
- Exercise on the day of your scan
Please wear loose clothing to your appointment, preferably with no metal. In some instances you may be required to wear a gown, as some materials and embellishments can show up on the scan.
You may be asked to remove objects like watches or jewellery for your scan, so consider leaving any valuables at home.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient.
Before your scan, your radiographer will explain the CTCS procedure to you. You will then be asked to lie down on the CT scanning bed, and electrodes, like those used for ECG tracing, will be positioned on your chest so that the CT will be able to acquire still images between heartbeats. The examination will take approximately five minutes once you are positioned on the CT table.
CT scans use x-rays which carry a very small radiation risk. The radiation exposure is kept to a minimum, and health experts feel the benefits of the diagnostic information obtained usually outweigh any potential risks.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please inform the team member booking your appointment, as alternative medical imaging may need to be arranged.
A CTCS scan does not require any specific after care. After your appointment, you may continue with normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner.
Please contact your preferred clinic for all quotes and enquiries. Our friendly customer service team can advise you of any costs involved with your CTCS scan, including any out-of-pocket costs.
We recommend arranging alternative childcare for the time of your scan, or have another adult accompany you to the appointment to care for your child.
Children are not allowed in the examination room, and there is no supervision available in the waiting area.
Our staff need to maintain full focus during your examination to ensure the best possible care.
