Coronary CT Angiography (CTA) is the only noninvasive technique available for imaging the coronary arteries. However, visualization of the small, tortuous, and rapidly moving coronary arteries stretches the temporal and spatial resolution of CT to its limits.
2 factors essential in getting a good scan are, stable low heart rate and a good breath-hold. A heart rate of 60 to 65 beats per minute is ideal. To achieve this, 50 mg of an extended release metoprolol is given to the patient (after having excluded any contraindication to the same) two nights before the test. Having said this, we have performed CTangiograms in patients with rates as high as 90 when required and obtained diagnostic images. The key to an acceptable study is a steady heart rate. This implies that patients with arrhythmias are poor candidates for this study. To read more download article....