CT Calcium Score

Get a CT at Radiology Ltd.

Same-day, next-day, early morning, evening, and weekend CT appointments available

Why Choose Radiology Ltd. for Your CT

Radiology Ltd. offers state-of-the-art CT imaging designed to deliver consistent, high-resolution image quality. 

When you need answers, choose clarity. At Radiology Ltd., we deliver high-quality CT imaging with real advantages for patients, including:

  • Significant cost savings: up to 60% less than hospital CT pricing
  • In-network with 99% of insurance plans
  • Exams read by subspecialty-trained, board-certified radiologists for precise interpretations
  • Advanced CT technology for faster scans and superior image quality
  • Prompt and reliable report turnaround
  • Low-dose CT protocols to reduce radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic quality
  • 11 convenient locations, serving patients throughout Tucson, Green Valley, Oro Valley, and Vail
  • Same-day and next-day appointments, plus extended and weekend hours
  • 97% patient satisfaction: patients love our friendly team and quick scheduling

What is CT Calcium Score?

CT Calcium Scoring is used to detect coronary artery disease (CAD) at an early stage in patients who have risk factors for CAD but no clinical symptoms. CT Calcium Scoring calculates the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries—the vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. Over time, calcium build-up can narrow the arteries or even close off blood flow to the heart, which can result in chest pain or a heart attack.

The procedure is usually performed in men age 45 or older and women age 55 or older. Besides age, other risk factors for CAD include:

  • Family history of heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High blood cholesterol levels
  • History of cigarette smoking
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Being physically inactive

CT Calcium Scoring is a convenient and non-invasive way of evaluating the coronary arteries. More than half of all heart attacks occur when there is less than 50 percent narrowing of the coronary arteries. This level of narrowing cannot be reliably detected on standard cardiac tests, but CT Calcium Scoring can suggest the presence of CAD even when there is less than 50 percent narrowing. However, not all calcium deposits in the coronary arteries produce a blockage, and not all blocked arteries contain calcium. In addition, CT Calcium Scoring cannot detect the earliest form of coronary artery disease (soft plaque) since it usually does not contain calcium deposits.

CT Calcium Scoring is not routinely covered by most health insurance plans and may be available only on a self-pay basis. If an abnormality is detected that requires further imaging tests or intervention, these additional procedures are usually covered by most health insurance plans.

Our CT Calcium Score Locations

Radiology Ltd provides CT Calcium Score services, at 1 of our locations. Rad Ltd offers evening and weekend hours and, at select locations, same-day and next-day appointments to meet your busy schedule.

Locations Providing CT Calcium Score:

• Wilmot

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What Should I Expect?

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should I Prepare?

No special preparations are necessary.

What Should I Expect?

After you arrive for your appointment, you will be escorted to a procedure room, where you will be asked to change into a patient gown. You should remove all jewelry and other removable items such as glasses, dentures, and hearing aids. Women should always inform their technologist if there is any possibility of pregnancy.

During the exam you will lie on a table that moves into the doughnut-shaped scanner. Electrodes (small metal discs) will be attached to your chest and to an electrocardiograph (ECG) machine, which makes it possible to obtain the CT images when the heart is not actively contracting. Your technologist will watch you through an observation window and will be able to communicate with you at all times. CT scans are non-invasive and painless, though you will hear humming, buzzing, or clicking sounds as the CT machine moves to position you. It is very important to follow all instructions and remain still during scanning in order to obtain clear images. The scan is usually completed within 10 minutes. After the exam, you can return to your normal activities.

For your safety and the protection of others, we do not allow anyone other than patients in our exam rooms.

How Do I Get The Results?

After your study, the images will be evaluated by one of our board-certified radiologists with expertise in cardiac imaging. A final report will be sent to your doctor or healthcare provider, who can then discuss the results with you in detail.

Reports are also available on the MyRad Patient Portal

View available CT Calcium Score appointments at a Radiology Ltd. location near you today