Coronary computed tomography angiography – Tolerability of β-blockers and contrast media, and temporal changes in radiation dose

Abstract

Objective. To determine the risk in administering β-blockers, contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and the trend in X-ray use, during coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Methods. A total of 416 patients were referred for elective CCTA. To achieve a resting heart rate below 60 beats per minute, oral and/or intravenous β-blockers were administered. Using questionnaires, information on the adverse effects of β-blockers was collected from the patients. The levels of s-creatinine and estimated GFR (eGFR) were measured before and after contrast enhanced CCTA. Radiation exposure was compared with the exposure 3 years earlier. Results. There was no significant difference in the symptoms (dizziness, lipothymia and palpitations) between patients with and patients without β-blocker pretreatment. Compared to baseline values, the decrease in s-creatinine was not significant (75.2 vs. 74.6 μmol/L, p = 0.09), while the increase in eGFR was not significant (78 vs. 79 mL/min, p = 0.17). Also, subgroups of patients with hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes or pre-existing slight impairment in renal function did not develop CIN. The mean radiation exposure decreased from 17.5 to 6.7 mSv, p < 0.0001. Conclusions. In terms of the side effects of β-blockers and contrast media, there were no short term complications to CCTA. Furthermore, the radiation dose has been dramatically diminished over the last three years.

Key words::

• adverse effects
• beta-blockers
• cardiac CT
• contrast nephropathy
• complications
• coronary computed tomography angiography
• radiation exposure

Declaration of interest: The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.