Cardiac Imaging

Some of Optima Diagnostic Imaging's cardiac imaging services include:

• Computed Tomography (CT) Coronary Calcium Scoring
• PET - Rubidium
• SPECT - Myocardial Perfusion

Computer Tomography (CT) Coronary Calcium Scoring

Computed Tomography (CT) Coronary Calcium Scoring is used to identify if a patient has coronary artery disease (CAD) also called atherosclerosis or "hardening of the arteries."  This is the leading cause of death of men and women in the United States.  Coronary artery disease results when the walls of the arteries that supply the heart with oxygen and blood thicken and create a reduced area for blood to flow through.  The arteries narrow and harden because of plaque build-up.  Over time, the plaque can rupture, leading to even greater blockage and contributing to heart attack or sudden death.  Calcium is a marker for coronary artery disease.  CT Coronary calcium scoring takes detailed images of the major arteries of the art and assesses how much calcium build up there is inside of them and provides a calcium score.  The calcium score helps doctors determine the extent of disease, establish prognosis, and plan for treatment. Learn More about CAD

Before the exam begins, electrocardiograph (ECG) electrodes are attached to the patient's chest.  The electrodes record the electrical activity of the heart and make it possible to record the CT scan when the heart is not contracting.  For the scan, patients are positioned on a narrow table that glides into the CT machine.  The procedure usually takes about 10 minutes and does not require any needles or injections. 

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Optima Diagnostic Imaging offers same-day appointments and flexible scheduling tailored to the needs of our patients and is the first choice for both patients and referring physicians for convenient, state-of-the-art imaging services. Call (310) 432-8999 to schedule an appointment today or use our online appointment request form.