calcium scoring
A non-invasive CT-based method for quantifying coronary artery calcification to assess cardiovascular risk and guide intervention planning.
Full Definition
Calcium scoring utilizes non-contrast computed tomography to detect and quantify calcium deposits within coronary arteries, reported as an Agatston score. Higher calcium scores correlate with increased atherosclerotic burden and cardiovascular risk. In interventional cardiology, calcium scoring helps predict procedural complexity, as heavily calcified lesions may require specialized techniques such as rotational atherectomy or intravascular lithotripsy. The presence of significant calcium can also influence stent selection and expansion characteristics. Calcium scoring provides valuable pre-procedural planning information for complex interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Specify Agatston score when reporting quantitative results.
In Context
- "Pre-procedural calcium scoring revealed an Agatston score of 1,200, suggesting complex intervention." — Pre-procedural assessment
- "The high calcium scoring prompted consideration of rotational atherectomy." — Procedural planning