The Physicians' Clinic

Calcium scanning
  • Non-invasive and quick 
  • Early detection of heart disease risk 
  • Helps to guide personalised prevention
Patient with radiographer CT scan

Calcium scanning: what to expect

Calcium scanning, also known as coronary calcium scanning, is a quick, non-invasive CT scan that detects calcium deposits in your coronary arteries. These deposits can signal early signs of heart disease, helping your doctor assess your risk of angina or heart attack. The scan is painless, requires no special preparation, and provides clear results to guide personalised prevention and protect your long-term heart health.

A calcium scan is very quick, usually taking around 10-15 minutes. You lie on your back in a CT scanner, with no drugs or special preparation needed. You’ll be able to get up straight after the scan, and wait for your follow-up appointment, where you can review your results with your consultant to get an understanding of your heart health.

Calcium scanning helps assess your risk of developing coronary artery disease. If no calcium deposits are found, it indicates healthy arteries. If deposits are detected, your doctor can recommend follow-up tests, such as a coronary angiogram, or lifestyle adjustments to reduce your risk of heart problems.

No. A calcium scan requires no special preparation, and you can usually return to your normal activities immediately afterwards. You get a valuable insight into your heart health without disrupting your day, which makes it a valuable and convenient way to take control of your heart health.

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International woman having a consultation

When should I have a calcium scan?

Calcium scanning helps you and your doctor understand your heart health and take action early. 

It can help identify:

  • Coronary artery disease (plaque build-up in the arteries)
  • Risk of angina (chest pain caused by reduced blood flow)
  • Risk of heart attack
  • Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
  • Early signs of cardiovascular complications in high-risk patients
 

Other diagnostics we offer

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ECG Tests

These tests give us a quick and accurate assessment of your heart’s rhythm and electrical activity.

 
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Echocardiography

A scan that uses ultrasound to evaluate the structure and function of your heart in detail.

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CT coronary angiogram

A procedure that provides detailed imaging of the heart’s blood vessels to guide precise cardiac care.