Cardiac Scoring

CT cardiac scoring is a newly developed, noninvasive test for quantifying coronary artery calcium content. This test is now available through St. John's Mercy Imaging Services.

The procedure begins with a fast, convenient and painless computed tomography (CT) exam. CT, more commonly known as CAT scanning, is the process of making an X-ray image of a very small section of your body. During CT scanning, an X-ray beam passes through the body and is recorded by electronic detectors. These detectors send the information to a computer where it is translated into an image.

During your exam, you will simply lie on the CT couch as it slowly moves into the donut-shaped gantry. The scanner then takes an image or picture of your beating heart while you hold your breath for approximately 20 seconds. The procedure requires no injections, treadmills or preparation such as fasting.

The information acquired during your CT exam is then processed with a cardiac scoring software package that evaluates and quantifies the amount of calcium in your coronary arteries. The results will be sent to you and your doctor for further consultation.

To schedule cardiac scoring, please call one of the following locations:

Town & Country - 636-207-2210
Hazelwood - 314-919-2760

Payment: Cardiac scoring is not covered by insurance. When you call, please ask about payment options.

Follow-up Care

St. John’s Mercy Heart Hospital combines expertise and technology to provide comprehensive cardiac care that includes a broad range of services.

Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease, also known as atherosclerosis, occurs when the arteries that carry blood and oxygen to the heart become clogged with plaque. The plaque build-up slows the flow of blood to the heart muscle causing ischemia and increasing the chance of fatal and non-fatal heart failure.

Risk Factors

People with three or more of these factors may be at increased risk of heart disease. A medical examination, such as coronary artery calcification assessment with cardiac scoring, should be scheduled to detect the presence of coronary artery disease.

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Family history of heart disease
• Smoker
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Overweight by 20% or more
• High-stress lifestyle
• Men over 45 years old and women over 55 years old

For more information, please visit our web module on cardiovascular health.