When to Get a Second Heart Scan

Studies have proven that for individuals with more plaque than average, the situation worsens yearly (by about 35% on average) if left untreated. However, if treated aggressively, in most cases the process of atherosclerosis can be slowed, stabilized or even reversed.

Should I Repeat the Heart Scan?
The decision to repeat a heart scan depends upon the reason for scanning and the results of the first scan. For example, if two siblings who share the same family history of early heart disease in a parent, had heart scans, we could make individual recommendations for repeat scans. If the brother had a high score, perhaps he should have a repeat scan in a year or two to see if his calcium score is responding to therapy. If his sister had a zero score, it is unlikely that will change for quite a while. Future scanning may be optional.

In general, if your scan results are higher than average or in the moderate range or higher, a repeat scan in a year is recommended by us. It is the only way for us to monitor whether there is progression (worsening), stabilization or regression (improvement) in your coronary situation. Most people with reassuring scores prefer to get an additional scan in a few years to get "one more point on the curve".

Use the Same Type of Scanner!
Note:ALWAYS use the same type of scanner for repeat heartscans. If your first scan was on an EBCT scanner, it would be almost impossible for us to make any judgments if your second scan was on a mechanical spiral (helical) scanner…so beware of the differences.