Our Services
HeartScan

Do You Have Heart Disease? Are You Sure?

As the nation's number one killer, heart disease claims the lives of more than 4,000 people in New Mexico every year. Surprisingly, a large number of those suffering from heart disease do not have any obvious outward symptoms; for many, their very first symptom is a heart attack. It has proven difficult to utilize existing technology and conventional medical tests to detect signs of coronary artery disease in its early stages. That is, until now. The Heart Hospital of New Mexico is proud to introduce the HeartScan CT, a giant step forward in the early detection of heart disease.

What is HeartScan CT?

The HeartScan CT is a sub-second CT scan that can help detect heart disease at its earliest stages. The HeartScan uses the advanced technology of Computerized Tomography (CT) to capture images of the heart while the heart is at rest. The resulting high-resolution images may allow a physician to detect even a minimal amount of calcium build-up in the coronary arteries. Coronary artery calcium is one indicator of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), the leading cause of coronary artery disease. While traditional diagnostic tests may suggest the probability of atherosclerosis, they cannot determine whether the disease is actually present.

Early Detection Means Better Outcomes.

We know that the earlier heart disease is detected, the greater the chance that it can be slowed, stopped or even reversed. Traditional cardiac tests, such as ECG treadmill tests, stress tests, echocardiograms and cholesterol tests simply cannot detect early signs of coronary atherosclerosis. While such tests are important, even if you have perfectly normal results on every one of them, it is still possible you could be well along the path to coronary artery disease.

Are You at Risk?

Last year more than 1.5 million Americans suffered heart attacks. Many never even saw it coming; they felt fine. The cause of most of these heart attacks is plaque build-up in the coronary arteries. Such plaque contains calcium, which may be detected by the HeartScan CT. What are the chances that you are going to have a sudden, life-threatening heart attack? Heart Hospital of New Mexico's HeartScan CT can help to answer that question. We know that certain factors increase the risk for a heart attack. These factors include:

• Family history of heart disease
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure

If you meet any of these criteria, the HeartScan CT could provide you with invaluable additional information that could change your life.

Who Should Not Have the HeartScan CT?

• People already diagnosed with heart disease.
• People with active current cardiac symptoms, such as chest pain.
• People requiring angiograms. If you have already consulted with a physician who has recommended an angiogram, it is not likely that the HeartScan CT is appropriate for you. This test does not take the place of coronary angiography.

A Few More Facts About the HeartScan CT Test.

• Non Invasive: No needles, tubes or liquids. The test is painless, simple and safe- very similar to a series of chest x-rays.
• Easy: All you need to do is lie on the table and hold your breath as directed.
• Accurate: The images produced from this test may allow physicians to calculate the amount of calcium in your coronary arteries.
• Affordable: The HeartScan CT costs less than most other cardiac tests and only takes a few minutes of your time.

HeartScan CT is the only non-invasive test currently capable of detecting the early stages of coronary arteriosclerosis.

Comprehensive Test Results

Following the scan, you and your physician will be sent a report that shows how much calcium was found in your coronary arteries, and how your score compares with other people of your age and sex. This score should be reviewed with your physician, taking into account your total risk profile.

If Your Test is Positive:

If you test positive for arterial calcification, it means that calcium was noted in one or more of your arteries. This does not necessarily mean that you are destined to have a heart attack; in fact, some calcification is normal in people of a certain age. However, the presence of any calcium strongly suggests that you should examine your diet, exercise regimen and total risk profile to give yourself the best chance for a healthy heart.

Knowing Can Save Your Life.

No matter what the result, this test can let you know where you stand in the fight against heart disease. What you learn from the HeartScan CT may very well change the way you live your life. For more information, or to schedule your HeartScan CT, call (505) 724-2295 or email heartscanct@hearthospitalnm.com