These calcium deposits do not necessarily be accompanied with a narrowing of the coronary arteries. But also small plaques, that do not constrict the vessel cross-section, can suddenly rupture and lead to a complete vessel occlusion, the most common cause of a heart attack.

The proof of calcification with cardiac CT allows the early detection of a heart attack risk. This is important. the reduction of risk factors, such as taking medications to lower blood lipid levels, reduce the probability for a myocardial infarction significantly. Such an examination is recommended for patients, who have no symptoms but have risk factors. These include in particular the presence of coronary heart disease of relatives, elevated cholesterol and blood pressure, nicotin, as well as a present diabetes.

In addition, the cardiac CT allows also to examine the coronary arteries directly constrictions, the so-called stenosis or occlusions. For this diagnosis an iodine-containing X-ray contrast agent is administered to the patient. The CT allows an accurate assessment of the coronary arteries or bypass grafts in three-dimensional reconstructions.We are in close cooperation experienced centers.