Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scoring
A non-invasive CT scan that measures calcium build-up in your coronary arteries, helping your doctor assess your heart health.
What is coronary artery calcium scoring?
CAC scoring assesses the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) by providing an overall calcium score. Your calcium score is based on the results from the low dose computed tomography (CT) images of your coronary arteries. The lower your score, the lower your risk of developing symptomatic CAD. Depending on your score, your doctor may make recommendations on lifestyle changes, medications or treatments to reduce your potential risk from CAD.
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a disease that develops when major blood vessels supplying blood to your heart become narrowed or blocked. If the heart is unable to get enough blood, it will lack the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. This can cause chest pain (angina) or in the case of a complete block, a heart attack. Coronary artery disease can be detected early, before it causes any symptoms by the identification of calcification of the coronary arteries, so called “hardening of the arteries”.
What should I expect?
The preparation and scan should take no more than 20 minutes. A radiographer will position you on the CT table, lying on your back with your arms above your head.
Small electrodes will be attached to your chest to record your heart’s electrical activity and help coordinate the timing of the CT images. Your chest may be cleaned with alcohol wipes before the electrodes are applied.
CAC scoring is non-invasive and does not require injections or dyes. The examination table may move during the scan, and you will be asked to hold your breath for around 10 seconds while the images are taken.You will be asked to hold your breath for a period of 10 seconds during the scan while the images are being recorded.
Please note: This test is not eligible for a Medicare rebate.
How do I make an appointment with Advara HeartCare
If you have a referral from your GP or specialist, you can book coronary artery calcium scoring at an Advara HeartCare centre.
Advara HeartCare is Australia’s largest cardiology provider with centres in or around most major metropolitan areas and select regional locations. Click below to find an electrocardiogram test near Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide today.
CAC scoring measures calcium build-up in your coronary arteries using a CT scan.
What to Expect
Coronary Artery Calcium Test
How to prepare for a Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score
Eat & Drink Normally
You can eat and drink as normal before your ECG. There is no need to fast or make any changes to your diet.
What to Wear
Wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing jewellery or metal objects around your chest, as these may need to be removed before the scan.
What to Bring
Bring your referral letter, Medicare card, and a list of any current medications. Some centres may ask you to send your referral in advance—check when you book.
Appointment Duration
Allow around 20 minutes for preparation and the scan. You can return to your usual activities afterwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit our FAQ section for answers to more common questions about Advara HeartCare, the heart tests we provide and how to access our services.
Why might I have a calcium score?
A calcium score is a way to find out if you have early heart disease before it gets worse. Knowing your risk can allow you and your doctor to make decisions about how to reduce your risk. These may be things such as lifestyle changes or medication. Your doctor may also suggest you have a calcium score if you have one or more potential risk factors for CAD such as family history.
A coronary artery calcium score in many cases de-risks an individual. In cases where a personalised decision needs to be made about treatment, such as starting medication for cholesterol, a CT calcium score can provide very useful information. If the score is 0, it is often possible to avoid active medication therapy for slightly elevated cholesterol.
Even if you are low risk, however, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and monitor your heart health.
When should I have a calcium score?
Anyone can have a calcium score, however usually it is healthy adults aged between 40 and 75 years (over 35 years for Aboriginal or Torres Strait islanders). The majority of people in Australia who have a cardiac event are those that are considered low to intermediate risk. These people usually have only one traditional cardiac risk factor or no risk factors. A calcium score can help reclassify a person’s risk, either up or down, and lead to better cardiac management.
If you are already experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, your doctor may refer you to have a computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) instead.
How do I prepare for a calcium score?
- Do not wear lotions, perfumes or powders around the chest area, and remove any jewellery around your neck or chest
- Wear an outfit on the day to enable you to easily change into a gown from the waist up, such as a shirt or blouse
What happens after the test?
Is a calcium score safe?
Cardiac
Services Available
A full spectrum of heart diagnostics, testing, and specialist care, all under one roof.
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