A Heart Scan, or coronary artery screening, is a fast, painless, scan of your heart that determines if you have coronary artery disease. The scan, done using advanced CT technology, calculates the amount of calcium or plaque in your coronary arteries. This is called your “coronary score.” A high score relative to your age is statistically associated with a high risk of a heart attack in the future.

A Heart Scan "predicts" your future risk of heart attack. Knowing this future risk provides many individuals with peace of mind, and for some, it provides the opportunity to take steps to prevent progression of coronary artery disease and prevent a heart attack. The facts about heart health and pursuit of healthy living are factors that lead many to schedule a Heart Scan.

•  According to the American Heart Association, coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death and disability in the United States for both men and women.

•  Coronary artery disease is a silent killer. Fifty percent of heart attacks occur in people with no known history of heart disease.

•  Coronary artery disease can be slowed and in some cases reversed through lifestyle changes and medication.

•  Early detection, preventive programs and early intervention are critical and can save lives.

The Heart Scan is most appropriate for asymptomatic men and women between the ages of 40-65 who have no history of heart disease but who have one or more of the following risk factors:

•  Family history of heart disease

•  High blood pressure

•  Smoking

•  Overweight

•  High cholesterol

•  Diabetes

To learn more about your risk for heart disease, visit the American Heart Association's Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment Tool.

If you have any symptoms such as chest pain or productive cough, see your physician. Don’t wait to see your physician until after your Heart Scan.

The Heart Scan is a simple, painless exam. We’ve designed our center and the exam to be comfortable, convenient and private. No needles are used and you will be exposed to a very low dose of radiation, similar to an x-ray.

No special preparation is needed for your Heart Scan. You may go about your daily routine, eating, drinking and taking any medications as you normally would.

After your scan, one of our board certified radiologists will review your results and discuss them with you. You will leave with a typed report, our recommendations, pertinent printed images, and a CD of your examination. Although the scan takes less than ten minutes, you should allow one hour for the entire process.

No. Although a referral is not required, we strongly encourage all of our patients to work closely with their physician to formulate a complete preventive care plan. A copy of your results will be sent to your physician upon your request.

No. Currently the Heart Scan is considered preventive for asymptomatic people. You may pay with check, cash or credit card at the time of your appointment. Many people are reimbursed through their flexible medical spending accounts. If further tests are needed, these costs are typically covered by insurance.

Call (763) 398-4400 to schedule an appointment for your Heart Scan.