CT calcium scoring is a scan that measures calcified plaque in the coronary arteries to estimate future heart-disease risk, for people without symptoms.
What is CT calcium scoring?
CT calcium scoring is a specialised, low-dose CT scan that detects calcium deposits in your coronary arteries. Because calcified plaque is a marker of coronary artery disease (CAD), the scan can help identify heart disease before symptoms appear and estimate your future risk of a heart attack.
The scan measures calcium that has built up inside your artery walls. This calcium forms when fat and other substances accumulate and harden over time. Its presence signals atherosclerosis (coronary artery disease), which can increase your risk of chest pain (angina) or a heart attack.
The result is given as a calcium score, which helps show whether plaque is present and how extensive it is.
Why would you have CT calcium scoring?
A CT calcium scoring helps identify coronary artery disease before symptoms appear.
It is often recommended for people with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, a family history of heart disease, or for those who want a clearer picture of their cardiovascular risk. The results can help guide lifestyle changes or medical management.
What does the procedure involve?
The scan is quick, non-invasive, and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
You lie on a CT table while the scanner takes images of your heart. Sticky electrodes are placed on your chest to track your heartbeat. No injections or contrast dye are usually required. You may be asked to briefly hold your breath to ensure clear images.
What are the benefits of CT calcium scoring?
A CT calcium score helps identify early signs of coronary artery disease by measuring calcified plaque in your coronary arteries. Key benefits include:
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Early detection of heart disease and risk evaluation - the scan can reveal plaque buildup before symptoms appear, helping clinicians evaluate whether you may be at increased risk of a heart attack.
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More personalised risk assessment - it provides additional insight beyond traditional risk factors like cholesterol or blood pressure.
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Supports informed decision-making - results can guide lifestyle changes or medical management to reduce cardiovascular risk.
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Quick, non-invasive, and painless - no needles, contrast dye, or recovery time are typically required.
Who is suitable for CT calcium scanning?
CT calcium scoring is most suitable for adults aged 40 to 70 who don’t have symptoms but have an increased or borderline risk of heart disease. It can help guide treatment decisions, especially whether starting a statin is appropriate, when traditional risk factors alone don’t give a clear picture.
The major risk factors of heart disease include those who:
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Have a family history of heart disease
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Use tobacco, now or in the past
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Have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes
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Are overweight (BMI >25)
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Have an inactive lifestyle
Who should not have a CT calcium scan?
A CT calcium scan may not be recommended for:
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Pregnant ladies
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Very large people who may not fit into the opening of a conventional CT scanner
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People who may be over the weight limit for the moving table
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People with very low risk of heart disease
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Those unable to lie still or hold their breath briefly
What are the potential complications of CT calcium scanning?
CT calcium scoring is considered very safe. Potential risks include:
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Low radiation exposure, similar to natural background radiation over a few months
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Rare discomfort from lying still or holding your breath
What is the recovery process after a CT calcium scan?
There is no recovery period needed after a CT calcium score. You can return to normal activities immediately. The scan uses low-dose radiation and does not involve sedation or injections, so there are no after-effects to manage.
What is the cost of a CT calcium score?
The cost of a CT calcium score will depend on the hospital or clinic you choose for your care.
At Ramsay, you will receive a formal quotation price for your treatment following a consultation with one of our specialists. This quotation will be valid for 60 days, giving you time to consider your options.
We are recognised by all major medical insurers, and it’s important to find out whether your policy requires specific clinical justification for a CT calcium score. We advise you to obtain written authorisation from your insurance provider before starting treatment.
If you are paying for your treatment yourself, we offer a number of finance options:
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Interest-free finance with no deposit and monthly instalments at 0% interest
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All-inclusive Total Care where you make a one-off payment at a pre-agreed price
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Pay as you go flexible funding option, allowing you to spread costs as needed
You can find more information here.
Why choose Ramsay Health Care for CT calcium scoring?
Ramsay Health Care offers a high-quality, patient-centred environment for cardiac imaging, with advantages such as:
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Experienced cardiac imaging specialists who interpret scans with precision and clarity.
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Modern, low-dose CT technology designed to deliver accurate results with minimal radiation exposure.
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Fast access and short waiting times, helping you get answers sooner.
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Integrated care pathways, ensuring your results are shared with your GP or cardiologist promptly.
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A supportive, calm environment focused on comfort and reassurance throughout your visit.
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