WHAT IS CIMT TESTING?
CIMT testing is a non invasive measurement of the thickness of your carotid arterial walls (the intima media – i.e. Carotid Intima Media Thickness). Arteries carry the blood from the heart to the body and are the target of atherosclerosis, better known as “hardening of the arteries.” “Hardening” is a term for cholesterol being laid down as plaque inside the wall of the arteries. However, arteries don’t “harden” overnight. The whole process beings with inflammation INSIDE the wall of the artery.
WHY DO CIMT?
The inflammation inside the artery wall first appears as a widening of the wall, a part called the intima media (IM), or inner lining and middle part of the artery. A thickening of this IM area has been tightly correlated to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. CIMT accurately identifies this thickening and can help us understand how much inflammation your arteries are being exposed to, and what we need to do to reverse that inflammation. If you have thickening in the arteries of your neck, you most likely have thickening and inflammation in the arteries of your heart and brain.
HOW IS CIMT DONE?
CIMT is performed with an ultrasound machine by a certified ultrasound technician. The entire exam lasts about 30 minutes and is done in our office.
DOES CIMT SHOW ANYTHING ELSE?
CIMT also identifies any plaque in the arteries. Plaque in the arteries puts you at risk for one day having a heart attack or stroke. But GOOD NEWS! Knowing the thickness of your carotid intima media and whether or not you have plaque allows us to put together an individualized plan to drastically reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
WHO SHOULD HAVE CIMT TESTING?
Any one age 18 or older who wants to know about their risk of heart attack and stroke. The test is really ideal for those individuals in their 30s, 40s, and 50s to find early plaque and inflammation that can be STABILIZED AND REVERSED!
WHAT DOES CIMT COST?
CIMT testing costs $265. This payment includes the 30 minute follow up visit approximately 2 weeks later to review the results of the test and discuss an individualized plan for you. You will be given medical documentation to turn into your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Van Zant Medical Group, S.C. cannot guarantee reimbursement for CIMT. It is up to you to contact your insurance company to determine coverage.
HOW DO I SCHEDULE A CIMT?
We have dedicated days for CIMT testing. Please call our office at 309-621-9580 to inquire about upcoming available dates.
