64-Slice CT Scanner Imaging

Coronary Calcium Score Screening Test:
What happens on the day of the test?

• No special preparation is necessary. 
• The test requires lying still for approximately 5 minutes. 
• There is no IV or dye. 
• No medications will be administered 
• There is no pain or recovery time involved. 
• Once finished, you may immediately return to all normal activities

When do I get my results?

• Results will be mailed to you the next business day. 
  
• If you wish, our office can phone you with the results of your exam.

What if I have an abnormal Coronary Calcium Screening Exam?

• In the event that elevated coronary artery calcium is discovered, Heart Care Centers will advise you on appropriate follow-up and treatment. 
  
• This will usually involve modification of cardiac risk factors 
  
• Aggressive control of cholesterol, often with medications 
  
• Aggressive treatment of hypertension and/or diabetes 
  
• Smoking Cessation: Counseling and discussion of medication for cessation 
  
• Consideration of daily aspirin therapy 
  
• Please note that we will not routinely forward the result of this screening examination to your physician. 
  
• However, Heart Care Centers will advise you, if needed, to obtain further follow-up and treatment based on your test results.

Cardiac 64-Slice CT Angiography:

What happens on the day of the test?

• Prior to the test, a blood test will be done to assess kidney function. 
  
• Beta blockers are often given during the test, in order to slow down the heart rate. 
  
• An IV is placed in a vein of the arm to allow administration of IV Contrast. 
  
• The test duration is usually less than one hour. 
  
• After the test, there are no restrictions regarding driving or the resumption of usual activities.

What if I have an abnormal Cardiac 64-Slice CT Angiogram?

• In the event that elevated coronary artery calcium is discovered, Heart Care Centers will advise you on appropriate follow-up and treatment. 
  
• This will usually involve modification of cardiac risk factors 
  
• Aggressive control of cholesterol, often with medications 
  
• Aggressive treatment of hypertension and/or diabetes 
  
• Smoking Cessation: Counseling and discussion of medication for cessation 
  
• Consideration of daily aspirin therapy 
  
• Heart Care Centers will work with you and your primary care doctor to treat any abnormalities discovered on this exam.

A full range of CT imaging procedures are available at Heart Care Centers of Illinois, Palos Park Facility, located at:

Peace Professional Center

13011 S. 104th Ave,

Palos Park, IL.