Cardiovascular Evaluations
At South Denver Concierge, we go beyond standard tests with advanced evaluations and personalized, evidence-based prevention to identify risks and protect your heart before problems develop.
Expert Cardiovascular Evaluations in South Denver
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide — yet many people are unaware of their true risk. Traditional lipid panels measure cholesterol, but they don’t reveal the whole picture.At South Denver Concierge, we go beyond the basics with advanced lipoprotein, coronary artery, and stress testing to provide a precise understanding of your cardiovascular health.
Dr. Kenji Kaye and our medical team combine clinical expertise with comprehensive testing and lifestyle guidance to detect early risks, optimize prevention, and support long-term vitality.
Why the Standard Lipid Panel Falls Short
A typical lipid panel—total cholesterol, LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglycerides—offers limited insight into your cardiovascular risk.
Key limitations include:
• LDL-C (bad cholesterol): Measures cholesterol content, not the number or size of LDL particles — both of which drive plaque formation.
• HDL-C (good cholesterol): High levels aren’t always protective, and low levels don’t tell the full story.
• Triglycerides: Reflect metabolic health but fluctuate with diet and short-term lifestyle changes.
To truly assess your risk, we focus on deeper, more accurate markers that identify underlying causes of cardiovascular disease.
Advanced Lipoprotein Testing: The Real Risk Drivers
Advanced lipoprotein testing offers a detailed assessment of the particles that drive atherosclerosis, providing a deeper understanding of cardiovascular risk. We measure key markers, including Apolipoprotein B (apoB), which directly counts atherogenic particles and predicts risk more accurately than LDL-C; LDL Particle Number (LDL-P), which reflects the total number of LDL particles, as more particles increase risk even when LDL-C appears normal; and Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], a genetically inherited particle linked to higher plaque and clot risk, detectable with a one-time test. These tests are particularly important for patients with metabolic syndrome or insulin resistance. Targeting an apoB below 60 mg/dL in high-risk individuals can significantly reduce future cardiovascular events, with treatment tailored through lifestyle changes, statin therapy, or advanced medications such as PCSK9 inhibitors based on individual results.
Coronary Artery Testing: Seeing the Full Picture
While lipoprotein testing identifies risk factors, coronary artery imaging measures the actual disease burden. Our diagnostic tools include Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scoring, a low-dose CT scan that quantifies calcified plaque in the coronary arteries—CAC 0 indicates an excellent short-term outlook, while a score of 100–400 signals active atherosclerosis requiring closer management. For more advanced assessment, a Coronary CT Angiogram (CCTA) provides detailed visualization of both calcified and soft plaque. For individuals over 40 or those with risk factors such as diabetes, family history, or smoking, a CAC scan is one of the most valuable tools for proactive prevention.
It Includes:
Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Scoring
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Low-dose CT scan measuring calcified plaque in coronary arteries
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CAC = 0: Excellent short-term cardiovascular outlook
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CAC 100–400: Indicates active atherosclerosis needing closer monitoring
Coronary CT Angiogram (CCTA):
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Detailed visualization of both calcified and soft plaque
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Provides advanced assessment of coronary artery disease
Ideal Candidates:
- Individuals over 40 or with risk factors such as diabetes, family history of heart disease, or smoking
Ready to Protect Your Heart Health?
Heart disease prevention begins long before symptoms appear. Take a proactive approach with a comprehensive cardiovascular evaluation at South Denver Concierge. Schedule your appointment today and gain the clarity and confidence that come from truly understanding your heart.