CT Coronary Angio & Calcium Score

CT Coronary Angio & Calcium Score services offered in Santa Monica, CA

Heart disease affects Americans of all races, ethnicities, and ages, and Jenica L. Ortega, MD, at Commons Clinic, offers state-of-the-art testing and care to protect you. Dr. Ortega can perform two distinct tests simultaneously to assess potential heart problems: a CT (computed tomography) coronary angiogram and calcium score. A CT coronary angio can diagnose or rule out heart blockages, and a calcium score shows your risk for a heart attack. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Ortega, call the Santa Monica, California, office or book online today.

CT Coronary Angio & Calcium Score Q & A

What is CT coronary angiography?

CT (computed tomography) coronary angiography utilizes CT scanning technology along with a special contrast dye to visualize your coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle.

Your scan takes and combines detailed images to create three-dimensional images of your heart and its blood vessels. These images help Dr. Ortega see whether arteries are narrowing due to plaque buildup.

What is a calcium score test?

A calcium score test, also known as a coronary artery calcium scan, utilizes CT to measure calcium in the coronary arteries. Calcium buildup puts you at greater risk of a heart attack.

The test produces a calcium score, which indicates calcium levels in the coronary arteries.

A score of 0 indicates a very low risk of heart disease with no calcium detected.
A score of 1–99 means there’s some plaque, so you have a low to moderate risk.
A score of 100–399 indicates moderate plaque, so your risk of a heart attack is higher.
A score of 400 or higher shows extensive plaque, requiring medical evaluation.

This information helps Dr. Ortega begin and personalize your preventive strategies.

What are the benefits of a CT coronary angiogram and calcium score?

These tests offer vital benefits, including:

Early and accurate detection of heart issues
Comprehensive heart assessment
Treatment guidance for better prevention and care

The test provides a non-invasive alternative to other diagnostic tests and can be more convenient to schedule.

What is the process like during CT coronary angiography and calcium score?

Caffeine and smoking can affect your heart rate, so it’s best to avoid them before your scan. A contrast dye is injected through an IV line, to make the coronary arteries visible on the CT images.

Small electrodes are placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat, and you lie still on a motorized table that slides into the large, ring-shaped CT scanner. Holding your breath for a few seconds while the machine captures images ensures clear pictures.

Your appointment may take up to an hour, but the scan typically lasts 10–15 minutes, and you can return to your routine immediately.

A radiologist sends a detailed report to Dr. Ortega, who discusses the results with you and any next steps.

To schedule your consultation for a CT coronary angiogram and calcium score, call the office today or book online.