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Beta-blockers for cardiac CT: a primer for the radiologist
Harpreet K Pannu1, William Alvarez, Elliot K Fishman
1The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Objective:
The objective of this article is to describe a protocol for the administration of beta-blockers for cardiac CT. A low and regular heart rate is necessary for optimal visualization of the coronary arteries on CT and can be achieved by the administration of medications.
Conclusion:
Beta-blockers can be safely given, orally or IV, to most patients to lower the heart rate for cardiac CT. A protocol can be implemented and patients can be screened for certain contraindications to allow successful administration of these medications by radiologists.
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