Pre-Procedure / Post-Procedure Instructions
CT Scan/MRI
This test is used to help the doctor view the structure of your heart and the veins that enter the left atrium (top chamber). This may be done as a general evaluation study or before a catheter ablation procedure. The test is non-invasive, so there is no pain, but an IV may be placed in order for you to receive medication into your vein.
Check with your provider before the date of the test as there may be special instructions for you to follow.
CT Scan: This test uses radiation (X-rays) passed through the tissues of your body in small doses to make images of your heart.
CT Scan
Before the test: You will need to have blood work checked to make sure that your kidneys are working well because you will receive contrast dye through your IV. You should let your doctor know if you have an allergy to contrast dye, iodine, shellfish or other seafood. You should not eat for four hours before the test, but you can have liquids to drink.
During the test: You will be asked to lie on a table so that the CT scan machine can take pictures of your heart. A special contrast dye will be injected into your vein through the IV. Sometimes you will feel a warm or flushed feeling or a metallic taste in your mouth. These feelings usually pass within a few minutes. In some cases, you will be given a medication to slow down the heart rate to make it easier to get pictures of the heart. This may feel strange but is not dangerous to you.
After the test: There are no restrictions to your activity after this test.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): A special type of imaging that does not use ionizing radiation, but creates images of your heart by measuring radio wave signals that are given off by the tiny electrons in the tissues of your body.
MRI machine
Before the test: You will be asked about whether you have any metal implanted in your body such as: pacemakers, ICDs, artificial heart valves, artificial joints, plates or screws. It is also important to tell the radiology staff if you work with metal or were ever injured with a bullet or shrapnel. There is usually no special blood work needed or restriction to eating or drinking before this test, but check with your doctor just in case.
During the test: You will be asked to lay flat on a sliding table which will move you into position within the MRI machine so that your heart can be studied. There is no pain with this test and it usually takes about 15 minutes. Most people do well with this test. If you are claustrophobic (uncomfortable in enclosed spaces) you should talk to your doctor about it. Sometimes a medication can be given to relax you.
After the test: There are no restrictions to your activity after this test.