Effects of Β‒Blocker Administration on Cardiac Function: A Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography Study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Radiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Beta-blockers are commonly used to reduce heart rate (HR) for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA).
• Caution is advised for heart failure patients due to potential negative inotropic effects of beta-blockers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of beta-blockers (oral and intravenous) on cardiac function during CCTA.
• To determine if beta-blocker administration affects ejection fraction (EF) and heart rate (HR) assessed by CCTA.

Main Methods:

• 244 patients underwent CCTA with pre- and post-echocardiography.
• Ejection fraction (EF) systematic errors were corrected using delta EF (ΔEF).
• Univariate and multivariate analyses identified factors affecting ΔEF; HR changes were analyzed using Wilcoxon's test.

Main Results:

• Temporary beta-blocker administration during CCTA significantly decreased HR (p < 0.001) but did not significantly affect EF (p = 0.70).
• Regular beta-blocker use was associated with increased EF on CCTA.
• CCTA-derived EF was reliable, independent of beta-blocker use.

Conclusions:

• Immediate beta-blocker administration for CCTA influences HR but not EF.
• Premedication with beta-blockers is safe for patients undergoing CCTA.
• CCTA is a valuable tool for evaluating EF, irrespective of beta-blocker status.