A cardiac calcium scoring CT is a short, contrast-free scan of the heart that measures calcified plaque in the coronary arteries and reports it as a single number, used to refine your risk of a future heart attack.
Also called: Calcium score · Coronary calcium scan · Agatston score · Heart scan
What is a calcium score?
Calcium builds up in the walls of coronary arteries where plaque has formed. A calcium scoring CT measures how much is there and reports it as an Agatston score. A score of zero means no calcified plaque was detected. Higher numbers mean more plaque, and a higher risk of a future cardiac event.
The number matters less on its own than in context: your physician reads it alongside your age, blood pressure, cholesterol and family history.
Who is it for — and who is it not for?
Calcium scoring is for adults who do not have symptoms of heart disease, where the decision about starting preventive treatment such as a statin is genuinely uncertain. A score can tip that decision one way or the other.
It is not the right test if you already have known coronary artery disease, and it is not a test for chest pain. If you are having chest pain, pressure, or shortness of breath now, call 911 or go to an emergency room — do not wait for a scan.
What happens during the exam?
A technologist places small electrodes on your chest so the scanner can time itself to your heartbeat. You lie on your back and hold your breath for a few seconds while the scanner passes over your heart. That is the whole exam — most people are in and out in about fifteen minutes.
There is no contrast, no IV and no exercise involved.
What happens after?
A radiologist calculates your score and sends the report to your physician, usually within a few days. The result is a starting point for a conversation about prevention — diet, blood pressure, cholesterol and whether medication makes sense for you.
How do I prepare?
Wear metal-free clothing. You may be asked to avoid caffeine beforehand. Small electrodes are placed on your chest and you will hold your breath briefly.
Where can I get this exam?
Cardiac Calcium Scoring CT is available at eight of our centers — Palm Harbor MRI, Palm Harbor MRI – Wesley Chapel, Highland MRI, Winter Haven MRI, Brandon MRI, Sarasota MRI, Venice MRI and Venice MRI – Port Charlotte. One call reaches every location — we will schedule you at whichever has the soonest opening, usually the same week.
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Medically reviewed by the board-certified radiologists of MRI Associates · Updated 2026-08-25