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Your Life Can Change in a Heartbeat
Coronary heart disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death among American adults. Half of these deaths occur suddenly, without prior symptoms or warning. However, if the risk factors leading to a heart attack are identified early enough, 85% of sudden heart attacks may be prevented.

Measure Your Risk In Minutes
Cardiac Calcium Scoring can help predict heart disease risk at an early stage, before symptoms occur, for up to 10 years after the scan. The exam uses high resolution, rapid CT to take multiple angle X-Rays to create 2-D images of the beating heart. Our physicians analyze the CT to provide a calcium score for risk of cardiac artery blockage.  

Cardiac Calcium Screening is offered at Summit Diagnostic Center, Deane Hill at 7211 Wellington Dr. (lower level), Knoxville, TN 37919.

Schedule your screening today by calling 865-588-8005.

  • Why Is Early Detection Important?
    • The cardiac calcium exam determines the amount of atherosclerosis, or plaque build-up, in the coronary arteries, which is directly related to your risk for a future heart attack. Over time, plaque can cause hardening and narrowing of the arteries, decreasing blood flow to the heart.

    Your physician will receive your report and can devise a comprehensive plan to minimize risk and maximize heart health. Early modification of risk factors, as well as drug therapy in some cases, can slow the progression of CAD.

  • Can you benefit from a Cardiac Calcium Screening?

    •    Risk factors for developing CAD include:

    • Age: men 45 or older, women 50 or older
    • Sedentary or unhealthy lifestyle
    • Family history of heart disease
    • Abnormal cholesterol levels
    • High blood pressure
    • History of smoking
    • Overweight
    • Diabetes

    *If one or more of these factors apply to you, talk with your doctor and consider screening.

    **Patients with a known history of heart disease (coronary bypass or stent; implants including pacemakers or defibrillators; heart attack) or who are pregnant should not receive the exam.

  • Know Your Score

    • Calcium Score

    Presence of Plaque

    CAD Risk

    0

    No identifiable plaque

    Low

    0-10

    Minimal plaque

    Low

    11-100

    Mild plaque

    Low to moderate

    101-400

    Moderate plaque

    Moderate

    Over 400

    Extensive plaque

    High

    A low score suggests a low risk of coronary artery disease, but does not exclude the possibility of coronary artery narrowing. Discuss your results and how to decrease your risk with your physician.

  • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Do I Need A Physician Referral?

      • No, a referral is not needed for a Cardiac Calcium Scan. However, your physician will need to review the results and decide if further testing or treatment is recommended.

    • How Long is the Exam?

      • The exam lasts about 15 min. You and your physician will receive the results within a few days.

    • How do I prepare for the test?

      • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

      • Arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled test.

      • Avoid stimulants (caffeinated food/beverages, nicotine, energy drinks) 4 hours prior to test.

    • What is the cost of a screening?

      • The Cardiac Calcium CT Screening costs only $125 and is not covered by most insurance plans.