Why is this procedure done?
This is a test to find small pieces of calcium in the vessels that supply blood to your heart. These are your coronary arteries. Calcium in theses blood vessels is an early sign of coronary heart disease. If this illness progresses, you can have a substance called plaque build up in your blood vessels. Then, they become narrow and your heart does not get enough blood. This can cause many heart problems. If a piece of plaque breaks off, you can have a blood clot form and block your blood vessel. If a blood clot blocks the heart artery, a heart attack may happen. ‚
Electron-beam computed tomography uses x-rays to make detailed pictures of your heart. It is also called EBCT. This test is used to: ‚
- Screen for heart illnesses
- See if there is calcium buildup in your arteries
- Find out your risk for heart attack and future heart problems
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What will the results be?
A doctor with special training in reading x-rays will look at the CT pictures. The doctor will be looking to see if there is a problem that needs treatment. Your doctor will receive the findings and will talk to you about them. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will talk about your history and do an exam. Talk to your doctor about:
- If you are pregnant or nursing.
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- If you weigh more than 300 pounds. The machine has a weight limit capacity.
- Your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink anything a few hours before the procedure.
- Tell your doctor if you have problems with small spaces. You may be given a drug to help you relax.
- You may be asked to take off anything metal. This would include jewelry, watch, hairpins, or hearing aids. You may also have to take out any removable dentures before the procedure.
- Do not drink anything with caffeine for 24 hours before the test. This includes tea, coffee, energy drinks, and sodas.
- Do not smoke for 24 hours before the test.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will likely be asked to wear a patient gown.
- An I.V. will be started in your arm.
- You may receive drugs through the I.V. line or in pill form to slow your heartbeat for better pictures.
- You may have small patches on your chest to watch your heartbeat. Staff will also watch your blood pressure.
- You will lie on the narrow table of the machine. This table will slowly move into the hole of the machine. It takes pictures from many angles. You will hear noises while the pictures are being taken.
- You may be asked to hold your breath and stay very still for a few seconds while pictures are taken.
- The technician will guide you through the whole process from the next room. The machine has a speaker inside. This way you and the technician can talk with each other.
- The test is painless. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete the test.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may go home after the procedure.
- Have someone drive you home if you are given a drug to relax for the procedure.
- Ask your doctor when the results will be available.
What care is needed at home?
You may go back to your normal activities after the procedure. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
If you have not heard the results of the test within 1 week, call your doctor. The results will help your doctor understand what kind of problem you have. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
EBCT will not cause any harm to your health. ‚
Where can I learn more?
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute ‚
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/cscan/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚