General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
A CT scan of the coronary arteries may be used to measure a calcium score. This acquisition without an intravenous infusion detects and quantifies calcium in their walls, providing information about plaque burden. Ask whether this measurement is included in your prescription.
Looking for coronary narrowing involves an acquisition with contrast injected into a vein. It shows plaques and helps assess narrowed areas. A calcium score and an assessment of narrowing therefore answer different questions; do not interpret them as the same result.
CT uses X-rays. During imaging, the team may ask you to remain still and briefly hold your breath. You stay in contact with them: ask about these steps and report any difficulty following the instructions.
Before the examination, report a possible pregnancy, chronic conditions, medicines and any reaction to a previous contrast injection. Confirm food instructions and any necessary blood tests; do not change treatment yourself to prepare for the scan.
A scheduled examination must not delay help for new or severe chest pain, or chest pain accompanied by faintness or nausea: call 15 or 112 immediately in France. Urgent assessment takes priority over preparing for coronary CT.
When discussing the results, ask what was assessed: calcium, plaques and any narrowing. Have the prescribing doctor explain the complete report and next steps for your assessment; an initial explanation of the images may come before their final analysis.
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