HeartSmart IMT (Intima-Media Thickness)

Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) is a measurement of the thickness of the innermost layers of the carotid artery wall by ultrasound imaging. This is where atherosclerosis begins. Using a non-invasive ultrasound, a video of the carotids is made and then analyzed for the presence of atherosclerosis and detection of soft and hard plaque at its earliest stages. This is very important since soft plaque is more vulnerable to rupture and can break away from the arterial wall leading to a heart attack or stroke.

The value of carotid IMT has been recognized for its ability to detect early heart disease by the American Heart Association (AHA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Society of Echocardiography.

The Science of IMT

The artery from the heart to the brain, known as the carotid artery, is widely accepted as the ideal indicator for the early detection of heart disease. The carotid artery mirrors change in disease progression of the coronary arteries that surround the heart. The carotid artery illustrates the earliest signs of arterial wall thickening and lesion development. Atherosclerosis is the name of the disease. Intima-Media Thickness (IMT) of the artery wall is one of its major manifestations – lesions within the artery are another. The result is an obstruction of the arteries or spontaneous rupture of the lesion. The consequence, in addition to those that can significantly affect your quality of life, is a stroke or heart attack that can result in sudden death.

Heart Disease CAN Be Reversed

Should you learn you have heart disease, a comprehensive lifestyle change can sharply reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. When you aggressively work to manage your risk factors, you can make a vital difference in stopping, slowing or reversing the progression of heart disease. Consult with your physician about the best course of action for you.

Early Detection Leads to Prevention

Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women, claiming more lives than the next five leading causes of death combined — including cancer.

For most people, the first symptom of cardiovascular disease is a heart attack — and one out of four first-time heat attacks is fatal.

HeartSmart IMTplus™

HeartSmart IMTplus™ is a newly available diagnostic method for the early detection of heart disease. It assesses the presence and progression of cardiovascular disease at its earliest stages.

HeartSmart IMTplus™ is the most predictive test available for calculating an individual's likelihood of suffering a heart attack or stroke.

The IMT test is endorsed by the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology as a proven technique for the early detection of heart disease.

Life-Saving Results

Everyone is at risk for cardiovascular disease. HeartSmart IMTplus™ is vital for understanding the state of your cardiovascular health. Make it part of your annual preventive care.

Quick. Safe. Convenient.

HeartSmart IMTplus™ utilizes ultrasound, the same safe imaging used on expectant mothers with no exposure to radiation. It is quick and convenient – taking approximately 10 minutes and easily performed in your doctor's office.