Electron beam computed tomographic scanning in preventive medicine.

Undetected coronary atherosclerosis is present in the majority of patients suffering myocardial infarction or sudden death. Electron beam computed tomography affords noninvasive scanning of the heart to detect and measure coronary calcification. These data permit dramatically improved assessment of both short-term and future risk for cardiac and other events. Knowledge of this risk gives the physician an opportunity for timely and cost-effective interventions. (c)2002 CHF, Inc.