CT angiogram with contrast

Coronary angiogram

by TAC - 2022-03-22 11:22:28

Before a cardiac angiogram is performed, a beta bloker drug is usually administered to prevent an arrhythmia triggered by the introduction of a catheter into your heart. As far as I know, I never had side effects from the beta blocker in the angiograms I have had. In your case, you have the extra-protection of a PM, which won't allow your heartbeat to go too low. I see no reason for your concerns.

CT Coronary Angiogram with contrast

by Gemita - 2022-03-22 12:01:49

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ct-coronary-angiogram/about/pac-20385117

Happygirl8,

Please try not to worry.  A CT Coronary Angiogram is not the same as a standard Coronary Angiogram and I attach a link above which tells you more.  A CT Coronary Angiogram with contrast is a non invasive test used to visualise your arteries but no more.  It cannot treat a blocked artery as can a Coronary Angiogram which feeds catheters up into the heart to directly view the arteries and, if necessary, to open them up.  

I had a CT scan with contrast a few weeks ago (pelvis/abdomen).  I have a dual chamber pacemaker and have Sick Sinus Syndrome (bradycardia/tachycardia).  There were no difficulties at all with the contrast.  They recommended that I drink plenty of fluids afterwards to flush the contrast out of my system.  The contrast used may sometimes be a problem if you have poor kidney function or thyroid problems.  The contrast material used often includes iodine.  Husband had a thyroid storm after his CT with contrast once but only because he has poor kidney function and didn't hydrate sufficiently afterwards.  

With your pacemaker set to prevent your heart rate from falling, you should have no problems whatsoever.   Good luck.  I hope your arteries are crystal clear

CT angiogram

by AgentX86 - 2022-03-22 18:21:31

Don't worry about this at all.  I've had several.  If you're on anticoagulation, you'll likely have one at some point.  Hit your head, and it's CT time. An auto accident?  It's CT time.

Unlike MRIs, there is no issue whatsoever with PMs.  It's quick, painless (other than getting stuck for the contrast media), and very quick.  Compared even to a MRI or an echocardiogram, it's a nothing.

As Gemita said, you have the perfect defense against any heart-rate lowering drug - your pacemaker. That's its whole purpose.

CT Angiogram

by Julros - 2022-03-23 11:18:52

Beta blockers may be given during an CT angiogram to slow heart rate so that the CT scan capture clearer images of your heart between beats. I assume your cardiologist ordered this test, and is well aware of the effects of beta blockers and your response. I suppose they may have a pacer tech available to briefly lower your low rate limits to create the clearest possible images. 

CT Angiogram

by Happygirl8 - 2022-03-23 15:23:29

The hospital says I need a driver for this test? I was concerned about that and wondered if there were side effects from this test?  The pulse  lowering drugs concern me! I have a pacemaker for bradycardia and sometimes when I wake up in morning , my pulse is in 50s and I can tell, I'm tired and not myself!  I just wondered if you felt tired after the test? 

Tiredness

by Gemita - 2022-03-23 17:40:09

Happygirl8, I take beta blockers every day and after my CT scan with contrast I did not have any additional tiredness.  But of course if they need to lower your pulse with beta blockers to get clearer views and you are not used to beta blockers, you may need someone to escort you back home.  However your pacemaker will not allow your lower limit to fall below the value set (unless a pacemaker technician lowers this for duration of scan to get better views of your coronary arteries)?  Alternatively you could try asking them if it is possible to have the CT with contrast without the rate lowering meds.  Probably not, but ask anyway.  Tests might come out inconclusive though.

But they will monitor you throughout the procedure and ensure that you stay safe.  Speak to your doctors if you are worried.  You will be fine.  Good luck

CTAngiogram

by Happygirl8 - 2022-03-24 09:34:49

I called the cardiologist office and they are not concerned, so I guess I'll put it to rest! The nurse said I will be in good hands and they will monitor me throughout the test! She said the CT Angiogram is a test he prescribes often for his patients and no one ever had an issue! Thank you for your input