Heart CT Scans

Red And Blue Heart Ct Scan Illustration

Heart Scans

According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in America, contributing to one out of every four deaths in our country.

Sometimes, the first symptom of heart disease is a heart attack itself. Our non-invasive, low-dose, technologically advanced SOMATOM go.All CT scanner from Siemens Heathineers can be crucial in detecting early cardiovascular disease and therefore may change your life. Early detection is key!

Why should you get a Heart Scan?

Heart scans will let you know if you have calcium buildup in your arteries.

A heart scan will let you know if you have calcium buildup in your arteries. Arteries are the vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients from your heart to the rest of your body. The arteries should be flexible and elastic but calcium build up causes them to be hard and stiff. Pieces of calcium in the heart are called calcifications and a buildup of calcium deposits in the arteries increases the risk of coronary artery disease, the most common reason for heart attacks.

According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention,1 cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in America, contributing to one out of every four deaths in our country. About 610,000 people will die just this year from cardiovascular disease, a disease that if caught early, can be prevented, treated and even cured. For many of these victims, sadly, the first sign of their heart attack, is the heart attack itself.

1 – cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm

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Frequently Asked Questions

How safe is a Low Dose CT Scan with the Somatom go. ALL?

The radiation exposure of a Low Dose CT Scan with the SOMATOM go.All is extremely low. Typical, less accurate CT or CAT scans, will expose you to up to 20 times more radiation. With our Low Dose SOMATOM go.All CT Scanner, there are no shots, no dyes to drink, no fasting, and no medication to take. The SOMATOM go.All in is an open structure greatly reducing or removing the claustrophobic fears all together.

The scan is comfortable, noninvasive, and fast.

  • Total exam time: 10–15 minutes
  • Actual scan time: about 10 seconds

No. The scan is completely painless.   

You simply lie on the table and hold your breath briefly while the scan is performed. No needles, injections, or medications are required. 

  • A certified CT Technologist will guide you through the process
  • Small sensors will be placed on your chest to help with the scan
  • The SOMATOM go.All CT system is shaped like a donut, with you positioned in the center
  • The table moves slowly while images are captured
  • You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds
  • You’ll hear a low whirring sound during the scan

  • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
  • Women are encouraged to wear a sports bra or a bra without underwire
  • Remove all metal items, such as jewelry, belts, or items in your pockets

  • Avoid caffeine for 4 hours before your appointment
  • No fasting or medications are required

CT scan requirements vary by state. In Nevada, no doctor's prescription is required to receive a CT scan. 

This scan is recommended for adults who want a clearer picture of their heart health—especially before symptoms appear.

You may benefit if you:

  • Are 40 years or older
  • Have a family history of heart disease or heart attack
  • Currently use or previously used tobacco
  • Have high blood pressure
  • Have high cholesterol or triglycerides
  • Are overweight or obese
  • Have diabetes or prediabetes
  • Live a sedentary lifestyle
  • Experience high or ongoing stress

Consult a healthcare provider if you:

  • Are pregnant
  • Have been diagnosed with advanced heart disease
  • Are experiencing acute symptoms, such as chest pain or shortness of breath

A heart CT scan can help detect:

  • Calcium buildup in the coronary arteries
  • Plaque or blockages
  • Early signs of coronary artery disease
  • Increased risk for heart attack

Results are typically available within 7–10 business days and are mailed directly to your home. 

Please arrive 10 minutes early to complete a few brief forms before your scan.

Yes. CT scan and CAT scan are two terms for the same diagnostic imaging procedure. Today, most medical professionals use the term CT scan. 

What factors put someone at risk for heart or lung disease? Just as everyone in their 40’s and 50’s should begin undergoing regular colon exams and mammograms, people over the age of 40 with specific cardiac risk factors should consider having a Low Dose CT Heart and Lung Scan performed on a regular schedule. If you are between the ages of 40 and 72, with any of the following, you are considered an optimal candidate for the Low Dose Heart and Lung Scan.

  • Age
  • Tobacco Usage
  • High Blood pressure
  • High Cholesterol or Tryglyceride Levels
  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Family History of Heart Attack
  • Lack of Physical Activity
  • High Stress

With your heart CT Scan, you will receive a comprehensive radiology report.  This report is prepared by a Board-certified Radiologist and will take up to 7-10 business days that will be mailed to your home. Should you require further information about your results, Preventative Diagnostic’s  Medical Director will be available for consultation.

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