Carotid Intima Media Thickness Testing
Our CIMT (carotid intima media thickness) ultrasound test measures a patient's plaque in their carotid arteries and also compares the patient's arterial health with ideal arteries and calculates an age for their arteries. For example, a 55 year old male patient with diabetes may have arteries which are comparable to a healthy 70 year old. A CIMT scan (also called an IMT) is a valuable diagnostic tool because arterial plaque can cause heart attacks and strokes. This diagnostic procedure is non-invasive and can also determine if a patient's current treatment of cardiovascular issues is effective.
Who should have it done?
A CIMT scan is indicated for patients with the following diagnoses:
- Diabetes
- Dysmetabolic syndrome (pre-diabetes)
- Hypertension (chronic high blood pressure)
- High bad cholesterol and/or triglycerides
- Low good cholesterol
- Known carotid plaque
- Obesity
- Smokers or former smokers
Is it covered by insurance?
Some insurance companies cover this procedure. It may be applied to your deductible. If you are concerned about your insurance coverage, you may call them and ask if they cover procedure cover 93895.