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 those of a healthy 70 year old male. 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. If your insurance covers a CIMT, it may be applied to your deductible. If you are concerned about your insurance coverage, you can call them and ask if they cover procedure code 93895.