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In this Article

• What is an Electron Beam (Ultrafast) CT (EBCT)?
• How should I prepare for a heart CT scan?
• What can I expect during a heart CT scan?
• What happens after a heart CT scan?
• Is the heart CT scan covered by insurance?
• Electron Beam Computerized Tomography Index

What Happens After a Heart CT Scan?

You may continue all normal activities and eat as usual after the heart CT scan.

The results of the scan will be reviewed. The following information will be obtained:

• The number and density of calcified coronary plaques in the coronary arteries.
• Calcium score.

Your heart CT scan results will be examined and reviewed by a team of cardiovascular specialists, including a cardiovascular radiologist and a preventive cardiologist. The team will evaluate the calcium score and/or your CT angiogram, along with other risk factor measurements (risk factor evaluation, blood pressure, lipid analysis), to determine your risk for future coronary artery disease and will make recommendations regarding your lifestyle, medications, or additional cardiac testing.

You and your primary care doctor will receive the full report outlining your risk assessment and follow-up recommendations. Ask your doctor if you have any questions about the calcium-score screening heart scan.

Is the Heart CT Scan Covered by Insurance?

Because this CT scan is a screening examination, it is not currently covered under most insurance companies and Medicare. Therefore, you will likely be responsible for all involved costs at the time of the exam. The examination cost is about $350.00 and includes all lab, technical, medical and professional interpretation charges.

WebMD Medical Reference

SOURCES:

Reviewed by Robert J Bryg, MD on September 15, 2009

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