Risks of Heart Scans
There are risks associated with any computed tomography heart scan. The primary risks are radiation and the use of contrast media.
Radiation
All computed tomography scans use radiation in the creation of images, which comes in the form of X-rays. In a CT scan, X-rays are emitted and picked up by detectors after passing through the body. As the x-rays pass through the body, different structures (bones, organs, etc.) will alter the amount of radiaiton that reaches the detector. This process is known as attenuation, and the resulting information is used to create CT images.
The primary concern of radiation exposure is that it may lead to cancer. The amount of radiation exposure in a CT scan is relatively low, but still poses a risk. You should speak with your physician to determine the risk versus benefit of receiving a CT heart scan. In addition, radiation exposure is especially harmful to a fetus, and pregnant women should not receive a computed tomography heart scan. If you think you may be pregnant or are unsure if you are pregnant, you should notify your physician.
Contrast Media
Scans of the heart require contrast media, or dyes, to help enhance the visualization of coronary arteries. Contrast media is administered by injection into a vein, and you may feel a slight sensation during this injection. Contrast media is commonly iodine-based, which can trigger an allergic reaction in some patients. Those persons who are allergic to iodine should notfify their doctor and our staff prior to any 64 slice CT scan. In addition, contrast media may lead to kidney failure in patients with kidney problems. As part of your pre-scan evaluation, you should receive lab tests to determine the health of your kidneys. You should speak with your physician about the risks of contrast media if you have known kidney problems.
