Coronary artery calcium scoring

Cardiac calcium scoring uses a CT to check for the buildup of calcium in plaque on the coronary arteries. This test identifies and quantifies a marker of coronary disease (plaque), believed to detect earlier stage of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Coronary artery calcium scoring (CACS) was first reviewed in 2009 as a diagnostic test for detection of CAD.

  • In 2020, a review of CACS medical literature was conducted to determine if newly available published evidence could change the original coverage determination. The technology was not selected for rereview.

Status: Decision completed

Why is CACS being reviewed?

Concern about safety, cost, and efficacy regarding calcium scoring for cardiac disease. Concerns that technology is rapidly diffusing, has a radiation risk (especially cumulative), and is costly.

Primary criteria ranking

  • Safety = Medium
  • Efficacy = High
  • Cost = High

Documents

Assessment timeline

  • Draft report published: August 10, 2009
    • Public comment period: August 10 to August 24, 2009
  • Final report published: September 4, 2009
  • HTCC public meeting: November 20, 2009