Cardiac Electron-Beam (Ultra-Fast) Computed Tomography

What is cardiac electron-beam computed tomography?

Cardiac electron-beam computed tomography, sometimes called ultra-fast CT, is a computer-assisted X-ray scan of the heart. It can be used to check for coronary artery disease.

CT can also check the heart in other ways, including looking at heart valves and the size and function of the lower chambers of the heart (right and left ventricles). CT can help healthcare providers check nearby blood vessels, such as the aorta, which carries blood from the heart.

When is it done?

This scan may be done to:

• Check for calcium (calcification) in the coronary arteries to get an idea of how much the arteries may be narrowed or hardened by atherosclerosis. (Normal coronary arteries have very little or no calcium in them. Atherosclerosis attracts and concentrates calcium in the blood vessels.)
• Evaluate blood flow to the heart.
• See how well your heart is working.
• Check the heart valves.
• Look at structures around the heart, such as the pericardium (the thin membrane around the heart) and the aorta.

How do I prepare for the scan?

No special preparation is needed.

How happens during the scan?

Scanning usually lasts 20 to 90 minutes and is painless. During a CT scan, you lie still on a table. The table slides into the CT unit, which is like a small tunnel. It is important not to move during the scan. The best CT scans are obtained if you hold your breath while you are being scanned. If this is not possible, you will be asked to breathe quietly and regularly. The scanner moves around the table and may make noises. You can talk to the technologist at any time during the procedure.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

Information from the scan can help your healthcare provider check your risk for heart disease and get a close look at your heart and arteries to check for other problems. Because the procedure is noninvasive, it has fewer risks than coronary angiography.

What are the disadvantages of the scan?

This scan may not always help diagnose early-stage heart disease. You may need other tests. The scan can be expensive and is not usually covered by insurance or Medicare.

Written by Donald L. Warkentin, MD.
Published by RelayHealth.
© 2009 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved.