When to Get a Second 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.
The decision to repeat a heartscan 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 heartscans, 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".
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.
