When is Electron Beam Computed Tomography Used?
EBCT is used to: • Create a calcium score, based on calcium deposits in the coronary arteries • Make predictions about coronary heart disease (CHD) • Take a look at bypass grafts • Take a look at lesions, or sores, in your heart muscle • Evaluate the muscle mass in your heart • Check on heart function Benefits of Electron Beam Computed Tomography • It is less risky than more invasive tests for the presence of atherosclerosis. • It can show signs of heart disease before you have symptoms — but in time to make changes that could prevent a heart attack. • An EBCT scan takes less than 20 minutes and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward. Risks of Electron Beam Computed Tomography As with other tests that involve radiation exposure, there is concern about the dose of radiation you receive. While it’s safe for most adults, you still may want to talk to your doctor about safe radiation levels. Although EBCT provides interesting information, there is no clear data showing w
