| Services
Coronary CTA:
CT diagnostic test that uses 3 dimensional pictures to view blood flow in the arteries and veins. This is used to
determine if there are fatty or calcium deposits that could lead to serious blockages.
Uses:
To eliminate coronary disease as a source of chest pain
Provides a fuller picture of the coronary arteries without catheterization
Provides a picture of the walls of the vessel, allowing the radiologist to see plaques in the walls that don't encroach on the lumen.
CTA should not be performed in patients without risk factors or symptoms.
Preparation:
Continue to take your routine medications.
Take nothing by mouth 6 hours prior to your exam.
Avoid caffeine, cigarettes and other stimulants 24 hours prior to the scan.
If you are over the age of 65 or have Renal Insufficiency and will be receiving I.V. contrast as part of your CT exam, you must have a BUN/Creatinine drawn within 30 days prior to the exam. Please call your doctor to arrange this lab test.
If you have diabetes or kidney disease and/ or are taking glucose lowering medication, talk to your doctor about stopping the medication and follow up prior to scheduling this exam.
If your heart rate is above 70, we may have to give you a drug to slow your heart to 65 beats per minute.
Please notify the technologist if you have had a barium exam within the last 3 days.
Please notify the technologist if you are pregnant or could be pregnant.
Wear comfortable clothing
Bring prior images or scans
Bring a signed doctor's order, insurance co-payment and photo identification.
How Long is the Exam?:
Allow 30 - 60 minutes for the exam (depending on your heartrate).
After the Exam:
You should be able to return to your daily activites.
Please inform our staff immediately if you have any concerns after the test.
Your normal diet may be resumed.
If you were given a contrast agent orally or by I.V., drinking plenty of water after the exam will help flush your system.
Exam Results:
Results will be sent directly to your referring physician who will then contact you. If you would like a CD of your test, please inform our staff the day of your test.
Insurance Coverage:
Please contact our customer service department for more information at 301-441-9696
Not Recommended for:
Patients on dialysis, allergies to iodine or shellfish are not candidates. Please contact your referring physician if you have any of the above issues. |
