Whom CT Coronary angiogram is for?

CT Coronary angiogram is performed to diagnosis diseases of the vessels of the heart. Your doctor may recommend a CT coronary angiogram if you have:

1. Possible narrowing of the arteries of your heart.
2. A heart defect you were born with (congenital heart disease)
3. Abnormal origin and course of heart arteries, which could be dangerous.
4. To help doctors in looking for the integrity of bypass grafts, if unable to be seen on coronary angiogram due to technical difficulties.

What to expect before the procedure?

1. Before your procedure, your doctor will review your medical history, including allergies and medications you take. The team may perform a physical exam and check your vital signs including blood pressure and pulse.
2. The doctor will obtain verbal and written consent ( after explaining procedure and potential complications)
3. You will be asked not to drink or eat anything for at least 4-6 hours before the procedure.
4. An IV line is inserted into a vein in your arm for IV fluids
5. Beta-blocker medications may given to control heart speed.
6. May also be given nitroglycerin to widen (dilate) your coronary arteries
7. A contrast dye will then be injected into your arm

Possible complications

1. (CT) coronary angiogram is considered a safe test. The patient will be exposed to small amount of X-ray radiations.
2. Allergic reaction. It is rare but you could develop allergic reaction to the radioactive dye used for the test (Your doctor should be able to treat this immediately).
3. Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). You may develop some extra beats or fast heart rates (Arrhythmias) during exercise test. You may feel dizzy or fait. This usually recovers quickly. This may be a normal response or related to underlying heart problem (ask your doctor)
4. There is small risk to kidneys if you have renal impairment but you will be given IV fluids to minimize the risk.

What to expect during the procedure

1. For the procedure, you will be transferred inside an x-ray room.
2. You will then lie on x-ray table. The X-ray cameras may move over and around your head and chest to take pictures from many angles.
3. The doctor will inject dye into your arm.
4. You will attached to heart monitor, blood pressure cuff and Oxygen monitor.

How long does the procedure last?

1. This procedure may take upto 2-3 hours but may require more timings if any abnormalities noted

After CT Coronary angiogram

1. You may return to your normal activities unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
2. You are encouraged to drink more fluids.

Results

1. The test may be normal with No narrowing or blockages in the arteries of heart.
2. If narrowing or blockages are identified, you may need further additional tests, such as a coronary angiogram or angioplasty

Upcoming soon....