Why is this procedure done?
Angiography is a special test that looks at the blood vessels inside your body. This is done at the same time as a CT scan. A CT scanner is a tunnel-like machine. You will lie on a table in the middle of the machine. � �
A coronary CT angiography takes detailed pictures of the blood vessels all around your heart. Your doctor may be looking at the vessels that supply blood to your heart. This test will show if there is a deposit of fat or calcium in your blood vessels. This kind of buildup makes it harder for the blood to flow through them. Then, your heart does not get as much blood. The doctor may also be looking at the blood vessels going away from your heart. You doctor is trying to learn more about what is causing your heart problems. � �
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What will the results be?
A doctor with special training in reading x-rays will look at the CT pictures. The doctor will be looking to see if there is a problem that needs treatment. Your doctor will get the findings and will talk to you about them. � �
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will talk with you about you history and do an exam. Talk to your doctor about:
- If you are pregnant or nursing.
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- If you weigh more than 300 pounds. The machine has a weight limit capacity.
- You may be given a dye called "contrast " � for this procedure. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to dye or shellfish.
- Your doctor may give you a drug to empty out your stomach and bowels before the procedure.
- Your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink anything a few hours before the procedure.
- Tell your doctor if you have problems with small spaces. You may be given a drug to help you relax.
- You may be asked to take off anything metal. This would include jewelry, watch, hairpins, or hearing aids. You may also have to take out any removable dentures before the procedure.
- Do not drink anything with caffeine for 24 hours before the test. This includes tea, coffee, energy drinks, and sodas.
- Do not smoke for 24 hours before the test.
- Do not take Viagra � �, Cialis � �, or other drugs like this for 48 hours before the test.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will likely be asked to wear a patient gown.
- An I.V. will be started in your arm. You may have small patches on your chest to watch your heart beat. Staff will also watch your blood pressure.
- You will lie on the narrow table of the machine. This table will slowly move into the hole of the machine. It takes pictures from many angles. You will hear noises while the pictures are being taken.
- The technician may inject dye or contrast into your I.V. The dye may make your whole body warm when it is injected.
- You may be asked to hold your breath and stay very still for a few seconds while pictures are taken.
- The technician will guide you through the whole process from the next room. The machine has a speaker inside. This way you and the technician can talk with each other.
- You may be given drugs during the test. Some of these will go in your I.V. You may also get a pill or spray under your tongue. The drugs may change your heartbeat. They may also open up blood vessels. Doing these things will help the doctor be able to get better pictures of your heart.
- The test is painless. It most often takes 20 to 30 minutes to do the test.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may go home after the procedure.
- Have someone drive you home if you are given a drug to relax for the procedure.
- Your doctor may give you special orders if you were given a contrast dye.
- Ask your doctor when the results will be available.
What care is needed at home?
- You may go back to your normal activities after the procedure.
- If you were given a contrast dye, you should drink 6 to 8 glasses of water. Wash your hands after using the toilet.
- Sit down or lie down if you feel dizzy.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol � �) if you get a headache.
What follow-up care is needed?
If you have not heard the results of the test within 1 week, call your doctor. The results will help your doctor understand what kind of problem you have. Together you can make a plan for more care. � �
What problems could happen?
- Allergic reaction
- Contrast dye may have bad effects on people with kidney problems.
- During or right after the test you may have:
- Dizziness
- Very fast heartbeat
- Headache
Where can I learn more?
RadiologyInfo � �
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=angiocoroct � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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