CT Coronary Angiography (CT Angio Coronary) – Protocol & Patient Instructions
I. Patient Prerequisites (Before the Scan)
1. Fasting
• Fasting for at least 4–6 hours prior to the scan.
(Small sips of water allowed; no tea, coffee, or smoking.)
2. No Caffeine / Nicotine
• Avoid caffeine and smoking for 12 hours before the test.
(They increase heart rate and may reduce image quality.)
3. Medications
• Continue regular medications unless otherwise advised.
• Avoid Viagra, Cialis, or similar drugs for 24 hours prior (risk with nitrates).
• If diabetic and on metformin, it may be stopped on the day of scan and for 48 hrs after, depending on renal function.
4. Allergies
• Inform staff about any known allergy to contrast dye or iodine.
• If allergic, pre-medication protocol may be required (steroids + antihistamines).
5. Kidney Function
• Recent serum creatinine (within 1 month) required, especially for patients >40 yrs or with diabetes/hypertension.
6. Heart Rate Control
• Ideal heart rate: <65 bpm for best images.
• Beta-blocker (e.g., Metoprolol) may be given 1 hour before the scan, unless contraindicated (e.g., asthma, low BP, bradycardia).
7. Alprex ..Nitroglycerin sublingual may be given in some patients before the scan.
8. Attire & Preparation
• Remove metallic items, jewelry, watch, or underwire garments.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing or hospital gown.
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II. During the Scan
1. ECG leads will be attached to your chest for heart-rate monitoring.
2. IV contrast injection will be administered (you may feel warm or mild flushing).
3. You’ll be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during image capture.
4. Total scan time: less than a minute, but preparation may take 30–45 minutes.
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III. After the Scan
• Drink plenty of fluids (to flush out contrast).
• Resume normal diet and routine.
• Report will usually be available within a few hours to the next working day.
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✅ Patient Communication Example (Simplified)
“You’ll need to come fasting for 4–6 hours, avoid coffee or smoking before the scan, and bring your recent creatinine report. We may give you a small tablet to slow your heartbeat before the test. The scan is quick and painless — just a short breath-hold while we take pictures of your heart arteries.
