Health Library

Electron-Beam Computed Tomography

(EBCT; Ultrafast CT)

Definition | Reasons for Test | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

Electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT) is a fast and sensitive test for detecting calcium build-up in the arteries of the heart. It uses an electron “gun” instead of regular x-rays to scan the chest.

The amount of calcium build-up in the arteries will give your doctor an idea of whether a condition known as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) has developed. This condition can lead to narrowing of the arteries, heart attack, stroke, and other serious conditions.

Varying Degrees of Atherosclerosis in Coronary Arteries

Reasons for Test

EBCT is useful for screening people for coronary heart disease (CHD). It can be used before or after symptoms (such as chest pain) actually appear. This is important because, for many people, the first sign of CHD is a heart attack.

It can be used to:

Determine the risk of CHD in people with no symptoms
Determine likelihood of CHD in people with abnormal chest pain

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft

Possible Complications

An EBCT is considered a low risk proceudre. It uses very low amounts of radiation, but women should let their doctor know if they are pregnant.

Some may also have an allergic reaction to dyes or contrast material used to enhance the images. Let your doctor know about any allergies you may have.

What to Expect

Your doctor will discuss your health and medical history, including any risk factors you have for CHD. This will help your doctor determine if EBCT screening is right for you.

You will be asked to lie down on a padded table under an arch-shaped scanner. You may remain clothed and your head will not be enclosed at any time. The scanner moves over your body and takes pictures of your internal organs. During the scan, you will be asked to hold your breath at times to help you remain motionless. A radiographer who runs the scan will be with you to answer any questions or concerns.

You will be able to leave after the test is done.

The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes. The actual scanning time is only a few seconds.

The EBCT software measures the calcium deposits in your arteries. This is called the calcification score. Depending on your score, your doctor will discuss any measures you should take to decrease your risk of CHD, such as exercising more or taking medicine. Your doctor may also recommend more testing or surgery if your score is very high.

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if you have any questions about the test, your condition, or your test results.

In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.

American College of Cardiology

http://www.acc.org/

American College of Radiology

http://www.acr.org/

Canadian Cardiovascular Society

http://www.ccs.ca/home/index_e.aspx/

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada

http://ww2.heartandstroke.ca/splash/

American College of Radiology website. Available at: http://www.acr.org. Accessed December 1, 2006.

Computer imaging/tomography. American Heart Association website. Available at: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4554#electron. Accessed. Accessed December 1, 2006.

Electron-beam computed tomography (EBCT or helical or fast CT for determining cardiac calcification). Advanced Medical Technology Association website. Available at: http://www.advamed.org/publicdocs/electronbeam.html. Accessed. Accessed December 1, 2006.

Electron-beam tomography scan. British Heart Foundation website. Available at: http://www.bhf.org.uk/questions/index.asp?secondlevel=1157&thirdlevel=1624. Accessed. Accessed December 1, 2006.

O’Rourke R, Brundage B, Froelicher V, et al. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association expert consensus document on electron-beam computed tomography for the diagnosis and prognosis of coronary artery disease. Circulation. 2000;102:126.

Last reviewed November 2012 by Michael J. Fucci, DO

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.