Electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) is a fast, highly sensitive, and noninvasive technique for detecting calcium build-up in coronary arteries. It uses an electron “gun” instead of a regular x-ray to scan the chest.
The degree of calcium build-up in coronary arteries is an accurate measure of the degree of
atherosclerosis, a narrowing and hardening of the arteries that can lead to
heart attack,
stroke, and other serious conditions.
EBCT is useful in screening people for
coronary heart disease (CHD)
and cardiac events in their earliest stages,
before
symptoms (such as chest pain) actually arise. This is important because as many as half of all first coronary events, including sudden
cardiac arrest
and heart attack, occur in people with no symptoms of heart disease.
EBCT technology is limited because it is relatively new and still undergoing evaluation. Some insurers do not cover the procedure.
EBCT scans are normally used to evaluate coronary arteries in the chest.
EBCT is used for the following purposes:
- To determine short-term risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) in people with no symptoms
- To determine likelihood of CHD in people with abnormal chest pain
- To determine advancement or decline of CHD in people being treated for CHD (ie, those taking cholesterol-lowering medications)
-
To evaluate the state of a bypass graft following
coronary artery bypass graft surgery
Your doctor will discuss your overall health and medical history, including any risk factors you have for coronary heart disease, to determine if EBCT screening is appropriate in your case. EBCT is normally recommended for men over 40 and women over 45.
No anesthesia is necessary for this procedure.
You will be asked to lie down on a padded table under an arch-shaped scanner. You may remain clothed and your head will not be enclosed at any time. The scanner moves over your body and takes pictures of your internal organs. During the scan, you will be asked to hold your breath to help you remain motionless, but you may breathe during pauses. A radiographer who runs the scan will be present throughout the scan and will respond to any questions or concerns you have.
The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes, and the actual scanning time is only a few seconds.
No, EBCT causes no discomfort.
There are no known complications of EBCT. EBCT is considered a safe test which allows for minimal radiation exposure.
None. EBCT is an outpatient procedure.
The EBCT software used is able to measure the size and density of calcium deposits in your arteries, reported as your “calcification score.”
Depending on your score, your doctor will discuss any measures you should take to decrease your risk of coronary heart disease, such as increasing exercise or taking medication. Your doctor may also recommend further diagnostic testing or even surgery if your score is very high.
Last reviewed April 2008 by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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