iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersRadiologyheart attack

Will placing a stent to treat heart failure contribute to misleading calcium and LAD scores?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My husband survived a widowmaker heart attack two years ago. He had a calcium score scan two days ago and we are shocked seeing the score. The LAD score is off the charts.

  1. He does have a stent. Would the stent give a misleading score?
  2. Does the high score of his LAD indicate problems with or within the stent?
  3. Does this scan indicate the need for further tests or actions?
  4. He does take post-widowmaker medicines.

Please provide a diagnosis.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, the stent does affect the calcium score if the operator is not aware of the stent (as there is no mention of the stent). otherwise, a contrast study is indicated to check for the potency of the stent. You need not worry and clear this doubt first with the reporting radiologist. I have seen quite a lot of post-stent cases and am sure that if blocks are suspected contrast study is recommended.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your answer.

We did not mention the stent but we knew you could do this scan with a stent. We felt the reporting radiologist would recognize the stent for what it was. When I called and asked to speak to the radiologist about this I was told I could not. I am surprised that it would not be obvious there was a stent there. We will ask our primary doctor to look into this.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I would primarily suggest discussing this with his doctor rather than jumping to conclusions. His other coronary arteries are not showing so extensive atherosclerotic changes. Although contrast imaging would be required to check the patency of the stent. It can be well evaluated.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At May 16, 2023
Reviewed AtAugust 2, 2023

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra
Dr. Chitrangada Jitendra

Radiology

Consult this doctor
Listen to related tracks in our music library

Related Questions

Ticagrelor - Indications, Dosage, and Side Effects

Heart Attack Explained

What is the relation between lead poisoning and heart problems?

Pre-heart Attack Symptoms in Females

Read answers about:

heart attackcardiovascular stents

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Radiology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Trustpilot

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.