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CT Coronary Angiography in Bhubaneswar

Coronary Angiogram

CT Coronary Angiography in Bhubaneswar

A Coronary Angiogram is a diagnostic procedure that uses X-rays to visualise the functions of the coronary arteries and identify the presence of any blood clots.

  • Pre-procedure: Electrodes or patches are placed on the chest, arms, or legs to record heartbeat and other vital signs. Specialists may shave a small area on the region where the catheter is inserted.
  • Procedure: During the CT coronary angiography in Bhubaneswar, anaesthesia or sedatives will be administered to numb your pain. Our specialist will make an incision at the groyne or arm to gain access to your artery. A sheath is then inserted to provide access to catheters. Using fluoroscopy, the catheter is inserted through the sheath and passed through the artery. With the help of X-rays, the catheter is properly positioned, followed by the administration of contrast dyes. The movement of dye is observed through X-ray imaging, which helps in highlighting any obstruction in blood flow. Interventions like Balloon Angioplasty followed by Stenting are done if any obstructions are found. After the procedure, the catheter is removed and the incisions are closed.
  • Post-procedure: You will be shifted to the recovery room for further observation. Proper post-care instructions are given during your discharge.  

FAQ's

Factors that specialists consider eligible for patients to undergo a Coronary Angiogram include:

 

  • Abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) or stress test results

  • Diagnosed with heart issues, which include cardiac failure or valve obstructions like aortic stenosis, or thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysm and dissection.

  • Peripheral vascular diseases caused by atherosclerosis, exhibit symptoms such as pain or cramping while walking or exercising (intermittent claudication) or limb-threatening ischemia.

  • Recent chest pain (angina), unusual chest discomfort, or shortness of breath with no evidence of coronary abnormalities (Cardiac syndrome X)

  • Vascular malformations

General instructions involved in the preparation of a Coronary procedure include the following:

  • Abstain from eating or drinking for 8 hours before the procedure.
  • Inform our specialist if you have any past allergies induced by anaesthesia or contrast dyes, or if you are pregnant.

  • Refrain from taking medications such as anticoagulants or diuretics at least a day or for a particular period, as specified by specialists before the procedure.

  • Arrange and plan your transportation before and after the procedure and for your stay in the hospital.

  • Wear loose and comfortable clothes, and leave any pieces of jewellery at home during the procedure.

Ask any questions or share any concerns you have regarding the procedure, which our specialists will promptly resolve.

The duration of the procedure depends on whether any other tests or treatments are performed at the same time. Generally, the procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and can vary based on the patient's condition and the need for interventions. 

The procedure is generally safe, and any complications that occur might be due to patients who are at high risk, which include old age, patients with reduced heart function, calcified arteries, renal disease, and other health issues. Possible complications or risks that may arise with a Coronary Angiogram include:

  • Bruising or pain at the catheter site
  • Nausea or low blood vessel

  • Thrombosis 

  • Stroke

  • Rashes or itchiness

  • Reduced kidney function or contrast-induced nephropathy

  • Burning sensation after administration of contrast dyes

  • Significant bleeding or false aneurysm

  • Allergic reaction due to contrast dyes or anaesthesia

  • Acute renal failure

Cardiac tamponade, characterised by the accumulation of fluid around the heart 

After your procedure, you'll be positioned appropriately in the recovery room based on where the catheter was inserted. If the catheter is placed in the groyne, you will lie for several hours. Our medical team will assess your vital signs after the procedure. You may feel soreness or bumps at the catheter site, which is normal. Depending on your condition, you may either be discharged the same day or need to stay in the hospital for one or two days based on the test results.
 

General post-care instructions usually provided by specialists after undergoing a Coronary Angiogram include:

  • Taking adequate rest after the procedure
  • Refraining from standing for prolonged periods

  • Avoid performing any strenuous or heavy exercises, including lifts, at least a week after the procedure.

  • Hydrating yourself with plenty of water eight hours after the procedure or unless specified by our specialists.

  • Taking care of your incisions to prevent any infections

  • Limiting your ability to perform any normal activities or routines, such as sexual intercourse or bathing, for a couple of days after you are discharged. Nevertheless, you can take a shower.

  • Adhering to medications prescribed by our specialist

Attending regular follow-up appointments scheduled by our specialists

Both Coronary Angiograms and Coronary CT Angiograms use a catheter and the administration of dye to find abnormalities in blood vessels. However, CT Angiograms are minimally invasive compared to conventional Angiogram procedures and involve computerised tomography (CT) scans to highlight any anomalies in the coronary artery. The procedure usually involves lying on a long table that is present in the CT scanner and passing them through into the opening. This shows cross-section images to create detailed 3D images of the coronary artery. Although a Coronary CT Angiogram is used to detect narrowings, it is not as reliable as compared to a Coronary Angiogram, making the latter the ‘gold standard’ for the diagnosis of coronary heart disease.

Possible symptoms you should look for that may require medical attention after a Coronary Angiogram include:
 

  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea) or mild to severe chest pain that persists for longer periods
  • Severe pain, bruising, or bleeding at the catheter site

  • Infections that may cause fever or chills

  • Drainage or change in colour, which could be red, purple, or brown around the catheter site based on skin colour

  • Numbness or weakness around arms or legs