CONTENTS

SERIAL TOPIC
NO.
1 INTRODUCTION TO DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS
2 ECG
3 EEG
4 CT SCAN
5 MRI
6 ENDOSCOPY
7 LATESTSCANNING TECHNIQUES OF HEART

WHAT ARE DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS?

1
Diagnostic equipments, tools, methods, or systems are used for discovering
what is wrong with people who are ill or with things that do not work
properly.

Diagnostic medical equipment and supplies help clinicians to measure and

observe various aspects of a patient's health so that they can form a
diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made, the clinician can then prescribe an
appropriate treatment plan.

Diagnostic medical equipment is found in outpatient care centres for adult

and pediatrics, in emergency rooms, as well as inpatient hospital rooms and
intensive care units.

Equipment that can be considered medical diagnostic equipment includes

anything from stethoscopes and ophthalmoscopes to tongue depressors and
blood pressure cuffs. Any tool that might be used by a medical professional
to measure certain body functions or conditions can be considered medical
diagnostic equipment.

Because of the incredibly diverse range of products that fall into the category
of medical diagnostic equipment, these tools can be used in an equally
diverse range of settings. These products can be useful in doctor’s offices,
emergency rooms and hospitals, physical therapy and rehabilitation clinics,
athletic trainers’ offices, and school nurses’ offices. Additionally, these tools
can be used by customers at home to keep track of important medical
information that may need to be regularly monitored for certain health
concerns.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT

DIAGNOSTIC TOOL?
The selection of medical diagnostic equipment is as large as it is diverse, and
because of this, many customers may feel uncertain as to which diagnostic
products may be necessary for their needs. Depending on the setting, patient

2
type, and condition to be monitored, there are many different tools that may
be necessary for diagnosis. To help make the shopping process more simple,
this section outline some of the most common medical diagnostic
equipment, as well as some important considerations to make when looking
for the right products.

COMMON TYPES OF MEDICAL

DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT
STETHOSCOPES
Perhaps the most familiar of all medical diagnostic equipment, stethoscopes
allow their user to listen to the internal functions of the body—primarily the
heart and lungs. This information can be crucial in diagnosing conditions
related to either or both of these regions, including pneumonia, arrhythmia,
and many others.

THERMOMETER

An instrument for measuring and indicating temperature, typically one

consisting of a narrow, hermetically sealed glass tube marked with

3
graduations and having at one end a bulb containing mercury or alcohol
which extends along the tube as it expands.

OTOSCOPES

Otoscopes are the tools that are used to look into a patient’s ears during a
check-up. These devices are able to provide general information about the
ear, but can also provide insight about possible infections or other illnesses.

OPHTHALMOSCOPES
Another familiar tool that is often used in checkups, ophthalmoscopes allows
the healthcare professional to examine the interior of the eye. In doing this,
they assist in the diagnosis of a variety of different eye conditions.

4
GLUCOMETERS
Glucometers, also known as blood glucose meters, are simple, portable, and
convenient blood sugar monitoring devices. The hand-held devices help in
checking your glucose levels accurately, anywhere, anytime, within seconds.
Having a glucometer always comes in handy to check if your blood sugar is
low, high, or normal.

SPHYGMOMANOMETER

A sphygmomanometer, also known as a blood pressure monitor, or blood

pressure gauge, is a device used to measure blood pressure, composed of an
inflatable cuff to collapse and then release the artery under the cuff in a
controlled manner, and a mercury or aneroid manometer to measure the
pressure.

5
 ECG: ELECTROCARDIOGRAM
An electrocardiogram records the electrical signals in your heart. It's a
common and painless test used to quickly detect heart problems and monitor
your heart's health.

The electrical signal begins in the sinoatrial node (1) which is located in the
right atrium and travels to the right and left atria, causing them to contract
and pump blood into the ventricles. This electrical signal is recorded as the P
wave on the ECG. The PR Interval is the time, in seconds, from the beginning
of the P wave to the beginning of the QRS complex.

The electrical signal passes from the atria to the ventricles through the
atrioventricular (AV) node (2). The signal slows down as it passes through this
node, allowing the ventricles to fill with blood. This slowing signal appears as
a flat line on the ECG between the end of the P wave and the beginning of
the Q wave. The PR segment represents the electrical conduction through the
atria and the delay of the electrical impulse in the atrioventricular node.

After the signal leaves the AV node it travels along a pathway called the
bundle of His (3) and into the right and left bundle branches (4, 5). The signal
travels across the heart’s ventricles causing them to contract, pumping blood
to the lungs and the body. This signal is recorded as the QRS waves on the
ECG. Because these waves occur in rapid succession they are usually
considered together as the QRS complex.

6
The ventricles then recover to their normal electrical state, shown as the T
wave. The muscles relax and stop contracting, allowing the atria to fill with
blood and the entire process repeats with each heartbeat. The ST segment
connects the QRS complex and the T wave and represents the beginning of
the electrical recovery of the ventricles.

The QT interval represents the time during which the ventricles are
stimulated and recover after the stimulation. This interval shortens at a
faster heart rate and lengthens at a slower heart rate.

7
THE NORMAL ECG

It will be clear the first structure to be depolarised during normal sinus

rhythm is the right atrium, closely followed by the left atrium. So the first
electrical signal on a normal ECG originates from the atria and is known as
the P wave. Although there is usually only one P wave in most leads of an
ECG, the P wave is in fact the sum of the electrical signals from the two atria,
which are usually superimposed.

There is then a short, physiological delay as the atrioventricular (AV) node

slows the electrical depolarisation before it proceeds to the ventricles. This
delay is responsible for the PR interval, a short period where no electrical
activity is seen on the ECG, represented by a straight horizontal or
‘isoelectric’ line.

Depolarisation of the ventricles results in usually the largest part of the ECG
signal (because of the greater muscle mass in the ventricles) and this is
known as the QRS complex.

 The Q wave is the first initial downward or ‘negative’ deflection

 The R wave is then the next upward deflection (provided it crosses the
isoelectric line and becomes ‘positive’)
 The S wave is then the next deflection downwards, provided it crosses
the isoelectric line to become briefly negative before returning to the
isoelectric baseline.

In the case of the ventricles, there is also an electrical signal reflecting

repolarisation of the myocardium. This is shown as the ST segment and the T

8
wave. The ST segment is normally isoelectric, and the T wave in most leads is
an upright deflection of variable amplitude and duration.

HOW ARE ECG (WAVE STRIPS) USED TO EVALUATE HEART FUNCTION?

Electrode leads on the chest wall are able to detect electrical impulses that
are generated by the heart. Multiple leads provide many electrical views of
the heart. By interpreting the tracing, the physician can learn about the heart
rate and rhythm as well as blood flow to the ventricles (indirectly).

Rate refers to how fast the heart beats. Normally, the SA node generates an
electrical impulse 50-100 times per minute. Bradycardia
(brady=slow+cardia=heart) describes a heart rate less than 50 beats per
minute. Tachycardia (tachy=fast+cardia=heart) describes a heart rate faster
than 100 beats per minute.

9
Rhythm refers to the type of heartbeat. Normally, the heart beats in a sinus
rhythm with each electrical impulse generated by the SA node resulting in a
ventricular contraction, or heartbeat. There are a variety of abnormal
electrical rhythms, some are normal variants and some are potentially
dangerous. Some electrical rhythms do not generate a heartbeat and are the
cause of sudden death.

WHAT CAN AN ECG DETECT?

The ECG is used to assess heart function. Patients who complain of chest pain
or shortness of breath will often have an ECG as one of the first tests to help
determine if there is an acute myocardial infarction or heart attack present.
Even if there is no heart attack, the ECG can help decide whether the pain is
due to angina or narrowing of blood vessels to the heart muscle
(atherosclerosis). It is important to realize that an initial ECG may be normal
even if there is heart disease present. Serial EKGs may be needed over time
to find an abnormality.

ECGs are often performed when a patient complains of light headedness,

palpitations, or syncope (passing out) since abnormal heart rate and rhythms
may affect the heart's ability to pump blood and provide the body with
oxygen.

10
 EEG: ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that detects electrical activity in
your brain using small, metal discs (electrodes) attached to your scalp. Your
brain cells communicate via electrical impulses and are active all the time,
even when you're asleep. This activity shows up as wavy lines on an EEG
recording.

An EEG is one of the main diagnostic tests for epilepsy. An EEG can also play a
role in diagnosing other brain disorders.

WHY IS AN EEG DONE?

An EEG can determine changes in brain activity that might be useful in

diagnosing brain disorders, especially epilepsy or another seizure disorder.
An EEG might also be helpful for diagnosing or treating the following
disorders:

 Brain tumor
 Brain damage from head injury
 Brain dysfunction that can have a variety of causes (encephalopathy)
 Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)
 Stroke
 Sleep disorders

11
An EEG might also be used to confirm brain death in someone in a persistent
coma. A continuous EEG is used to help find the right level of anesthesia for
someone in a medically induced coma.

THINGS YOU CAN EXPECT TO HAPPEN DURING AN EEG:

 A technician measures your head and marks your scalp with a special
pencil to indicate where to attach the electrodes. Those spots on your
scalp might be scrubbed with a gritty cream to improve the quality of
the recording.
 A technician attaches discs (electrodes) to your scalp using a special
adhesive. Sometimes, an elastic cap fitted with electrodes is used
instead. The electrodes are connected with wires to an instrument that
amplifies the brain waves and records them on computer equipment.
 Once the electrodes are in place, an EEG typically takes up to 60
minutes. Testing for certain conditions require you to sleep during the
test. In that case, the test can be longer.
 You relax in a comfortable position with your eyes closed during the
test. At various times, the technician might ask you to open and close
your eyes, perform a few simple calculations, read a paragraph, look at
a picture, breathe deeply for a few minutes, or look at a flashing light.
 Video is routinely recorded during the EEG. Your body motions are
captured by a video camera while the EEG records your brain waves.
This combined recording can help your doctor diagnose and treat your
condition.

12
RESULTS AFTER THE EEG:

Doctors trained to analyze EEGs interpret the recording and send the results
to the doctor who ordered the EEG. Your doctor might schedule an office
appointment to discuss the results of the test.

If possible, bring along a family member or friend to the appointment to help

you remember the information you're given.

Write down questions to ask your doctor, such as:

 Based on the results, what are my next steps?

 What follow-up, if any, do I need?
 Are there factors that might have affected the results of this test in
some way?
 Will I need to repeat the test

13
 CT SCAN: COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images
taken from different angles around your body and uses computer processing
to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the bones, blood vessels and soft
tissues inside your body. CT scan images provide more-detailed information
than plain X-rays do.

A CT scan has many uses, but it's particularly well-suited to quickly examine
people who may have internal injuries from car accidents or other types of
trauma. A CT scan can be used to visualize nearly all parts of the body and is
used to diagnose disease or injury as well as to plan medical, surgical or
radiation treatment.

WHY IT'S DONE?

 Diagnose muscle and bone disorders, such as bone tumours and

fractures
 Pinpoint the location of a tumour, infection or blood clot
 Guide procedures such as surgery, biopsy and radiation therapy

14
  Detect and monitor diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart
disease, lung nodules and liver masses
 Monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments, such as cancer
treatment
 Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding.

HOW YOU PREPARE FOR A CT SCAN?

Depending on which part of your body is being scanned, you may be asked
to:

 Take off some or all of your clothing and wear a hospital gown
 Remove metal objects, such as a belt, jewellery, dentures and
eyeglasses, which might interfere with image results
 Refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before your scan

A special dye called contrast material is needed for some CT scans to help
highlight the areas of your body being examined. The contrast material
blocks X-rays and appears white on images, which can help emphasize blood
vessels, intestines or other structures.

Contrast material might be given to you:

 By mouth. If your oesophagus or stomach is being scanned, you may

need to swallow a liquid that contains contrast material. This drink
may taste unpleasant.
15
  By injection. Contrast agents can be injected through a vein in your
arm to help your gallbladder, urinary tract, liver or blood vessels stand
out on the images. You may experience a feeling of warmth during the
injection or a metallic taste in your mouth.
 By enema. A contrast material may be inserted in your rectum to help
visualize your intestines. This procedure can make you feel bloated and
uncomfortable.

DURING THE CT SCAN PROCEDURE:

CT scanners are shaped like a large doughnut standing on its side. You lie on
a narrow, motorized table that slides through the opening into a tunnel.
Straps and pillows may be used to help you stay in position. During a head
scan, the table may be fitted with a special cradle that holds your head still.

While the table moves you into the scanner, detectors and the X-ray tube
rotate around you. Each rotation yields several images of thin slices of your
body. You may hear buzzing and whirring noises.

A technologist in a separate room can see and hear you. You will be able to
communicate with the technologist via intercom. The technologist may ask
you to hold your breath at certain points to avoid blurring the images.

16
AFTER THE CT SCAN PROCEDURE:

After the exam you can return to your normal routine. If you were given
contrast material, you may receive special instructions. In some cases, you
may be asked to wait for a short time before leaving to ensure that you feel
well after the exam. After the scan, you'll likely be told to drink lots of fluids
to help your kidneys remove the contrast material from your body.

CT images are stored as electronic data files and are usually reviewed on a
computer screen. A radiologist interprets these images and sends a report to
your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS OF CT SCAN:

Radiation exposure

During a CT scan, you're briefly exposed to ionizing radiation. The amount of

radiation is greater than you would get during a plain X-ray because the CT
scan gathers more-detailed information. The low doses of radiation used in
CT scans have not been shown to cause long-term harm, although at much
higher doses, there may be a small increase in your potential risk of cancer.

CT scans have many benefits that outweigh any small potential risk. Doctors
use the lowest dose of radiation possible to obtain the needed medical
information. Also, newer, faster machines and techniques require less

17
radiation than was previously used. Talk with your doctor about the benefits
and risks of your CT scan.

Harm to unborn babies

Tell your doctor if you're pregnant. Although the radiation from a CT scan is
unlikely to injure your baby, your doctor may recommend another type of
exam, such as ultrasound or MRI, to avoid exposing your baby to radiation.
At the low doses of radiation used in CT imaging, no negative effects have
been observed in humans.

Reactions to contrast material

In certain cases, your doctor may recommend that you receive a special dye
called contrast material. This can be something that you are asked to drink
before your CT scan, or something that is given through a vein in your arm or
inserted into your rectum. Although rare, the contrast material can cause
medical problems or allergic reactions.

18
 MRI: MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is a common procedure around the
world.

MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images
of the organs and tissues within the body.Since its invention, doctors and
researchers continue to refine MRI techniques to assist in medical
procedures and research. The development of MRI revolutionized medicine.

An MRI scan uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to create a
detailed, cross-sectional image of internal organs and structures.The scanner
itself typically resembles a large tube with a table in the middle, allowing the
patient to slide in.

An MRI scan differs from CT scans and X-rays, as it does not use potentially
harmful ionizing radiation.

USES OF MRI SCANNING:

The development of the MRI scan represents a huge milestone for the
medical world. Doctors, scientists, and researchers are now able to examine
the inside of the human body in high detail using a non-invasive tool.

The following are examples in which an MRI scanner would be used:

 Anomalies of the brain and spinal cord

19
  Tumours, cysts, and other anomalies in various parts of the body
 Breast cancer screening for women who face a high risk of breast
cancer
 Injuries or abnormalities of the joints, such as the back and knee
 Certain types of heart problems
 Diseases of the liver and other abdominal organs
 The evaluation of pelvic pain in women, with causes including fibroids
and endometriosis
 Suspected uterine anomalies in women undergoing evaluation for
infertility

DURING AN MRI SCAN:

Once in the scanner, the MRI technician will communicate with the patient
via the intercom to make sure that they are comfortable. They will not start
the scan until the patient is ready.

During the scan, it is vital to stay still. Any movement will disrupt the images,
much like a camera trying to take a picture of a moving object. Loud clanging

20
noises will come from the scanner. This is perfectly normal. Depending on
the images, at times it may be necessary for the person to hold their breath.

If the patient feels uncomfortable during the procedure, they can speak to
the MRI technician via the intercom and request that the scan be stopped.

AFTER AN MRI SCAN:

After the scan, the radiologist will examine the images to check whether any
more are required. If the radiologist is satisfied, the patient can go home.

The radiologist will prepare a report for the requesting doctor. Patients are
usually asked to make an appointment with their doctor to discuss the
results.

SIDE EFFECTS OF MRI:

It is extremely rare that a patient will experience side effects from an MRI
scan.

However, the contrast dye can cause nausea, headaches, and pain or burning
at the point of injection in some people. Allergy to the contrast material is
also seldom seen but possible, and can cause hives or itchy eyes. Notify the
technician if any adverse reactions occur.

People who experience claustrophobia or feel uncomfortable in enclosed

spaces sometimes express difficulties with undergoing an MRI scan.

21
 ENDOSCOPY
THE UPPER ENDOSCOPY

An upper endoscopy is a procedure used to visually examine your upper

digestive system with a tiny camera on the end of a long, flexible tube. A
specialist in diseases of the digestive system (gastroenterologist) uses an
endoscopy to diagnose and, sometimes, treat conditions that affect the
oesophagus, stomach and beginning of the small intestine (duodenum).

WHY IS ENDOSCOPY DONE?

 Investigate symptoms. An endoscopy may help your doctor determine

what's causing digestive signs and symptoms, such as nausea,
vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing and gastrointestinal
bleeding.

22
 Diagnose. Your doctor may use an endoscopy to collect tissue samples
(biopsy) to test for diseases and conditions, such as anaemia, bleeding,
inflammation, diarrhoea or cancers of the digestive system.
 Treat. Your doctor can pass special tools through the endoscope to
treat problems in your digestive system, such as burning a bleeding
vessel to stop bleeding, widening a narrow oesophagus, clipping off a
polyp or removing a foreign object.

23
An endoscopy is sometimes combined with other procedures, such as an
ultrasound. An ultrasound probe may be attached to the endoscope to
create specialized images of the wall of your oesophagus or stomach. An
endoscopic ultrasound may also help your doctor create images of hard-
to-reach organs, such as your pancreas. Newer endoscopes use high-
definition video to provide clearer images. Many endoscopes allow your
doctor to use technology called narrow band imaging, which uses special
light to help better detect precancerous conditions, such as Barrett's
oesophagus.

DURING AN ENDOSCOPY:

During an upper endoscopy procedure, you'll be asked to lie down on a

table on your back or on your side. As the procedure gets underway:

 Monitors often will be attached to your body. This will allow your
health care team to monitor your breathing, blood pressure and heart
rate.
 You may receive a sedative medication. This medication, given through
a vein in your forearm, helps you relax during the endoscopy.
 Your doctor may spray an anaesthetic in your mouth. This medication
will numb your throat in preparation for insertion of the long, flexible
tube (endoscope). You may be asked to wear a plastic mouth guard to
hold your mouth open.
 Then the endoscope is inserted in your mouth. Your doctor may ask
you to swallow as the scope passes down your throat. You may feel
some pressure in your throat, but you shouldn't feel pain.

24
As your doctor passes the endoscope down your oesophagus:

1. A tiny camera at the tip transmits images to a video monitor in the

exam room. Your doctor watches this monitor to look for
abnormalities in your upper digestive tract. If abnormalities are found
in your digestive tract, your doctor may record images for later
examination.
2. Gentle air pressure may be fed into your oesophagus to inflate your
digestive tract. This allows the endoscope to move freely. And it allows
your doctor to more easily examine the folds of your digestive tract.
You may feel pressure or fullness from the added air.
3. Your doctor will pass special surgical tools through the endoscope to
collect a tissue sample or remove a polyp. Your doctor watches the
video monitor to guide the tools.

AFTER THE ENDOSCOPY:

You'll be taken to a recovery area to sit or lie quietly after your endoscopy.
You may stay for an hour or so. This allows your health care team to monitor
you as the sedative begins to wear off.

Once you're at home, you may experience some mildly uncomfortable signs
and symptoms after endoscopy, such as:

 Bloating and gas

 Cramping
 Sore throat

These signs and symptoms will improve with time. If you're concerned or
quite uncomfortable, call your doctor. Take it easy for the rest of the day

25
after your endoscopy. After receiving a sedative, you may feel alert, but your
reaction times are affected and judgment is delayed.

RESULTS AFTER ENDOSCOPY:

When you receive the results of your endoscopy will depend on your
situation. If, for instance, your doctor performed the endoscopy to look for
an ulcer, you may learn the findings right after your procedure. If he or she
collected a tissue sample (biopsy), you may need to wait a few days to get
results from the testing laboratory. Ask your doctor when you can expect the
results of your endoscopy.

26
 LATEST SCANNING TECHNIQUES OF HEART
1.TMT (TREADMILL TEST) OR CARDIAC
STRESS TEST
Treadmill test or cardiac stress test is a test to measure heart s capacity to
bear external stress in form of exercise. It is one of the most commonly done
tests in controlled clinical settings to diagnose ischemic heart disease and
determine prognosis after myocardial infarction.

PROCEDURE:

Treadmill test (TMT) is a form of exercise test where a stress test is

performed while the person is exercising on a treadmill during the course of
an Electro Cardiogram (ECG). The purpose of a TMT is majorly to compare
blood circulation in the heart when the person is resting and when under
optimum physical pressure. Abnormal heart rhythms can be detected while
exercising and therefore diagnose the presence or absence of coronary artery
diseases.

The test involves walking on a treadmill while the electrical activity of the
heart is being monitored. The speed and incline of the treadmill are
27
increased throughout the span of the test. The result shows how well the
heart responds to the stress of different levels of exercise. The blood
pressure, heart rate and electrocardiogram (ECG) are monitored before,
during and after the test. Adhesive electrodes and mild abrasion are used to
ensure good quality ECG. The person is advised to walk as long as possible
because the test is effort-dependent. It is also important for the person to
tell the technologist if he experiences symptoms such as chest pain, dizziness
and unusual shortness of breath or extreme fatigue. The blood pressure,
heart rate, and ECG are monitored for 3 to 5 minutes after the exercise. The
data is reviewed by a cardiologist.

PROCESS OF TMT:

The patient is advised against eating or drinking anything other than water
for nearly 4 hours before the test. If the patient is diabetic, he should consult
the doctor on the quantity of insulin that can be injected on the day of the
test. If the person is under medicine for diabetes he should only resume
taking them only after the test has been administered. Comfortable clothes
and shoes should be worn for the test.

A TMT is performed to identify a congenital heart problem like Coronary

Artery Disease (CAD) where coronary arteries get clogged, diseased or
damaged. It is also used to determine the condition of the heart after a
person went through angioplasty or heart-attack. Shallow breathing,
dizziness, chest discomfort, and abrupt bodily weakness are some of the
repressed conditions that can be detected through a TMT. A TMT can also be
used to monitor the effectiveness of medicines on angina and ischemia. It

28
also helps in discerning any abnormal heartbeat rate because of exertion
caused by exercise.

TMT is now widely available at a relatively low cost. It is used to estimate

prognosis and determine functional capacity. It helps in assessing the
probability and extent of coronary disease.

29
 2.ECHOCARDIOGRAM (ULTRASOUND)
An echocardiogram is a common test. It gives a picture of your heart using
ultrasound, a type of X-ray. It uses a probe either on your chest or down your
oesophagus (throat).

It helps your doctor check if there are any problems with your heart’s valves
and chambers, and see how strongly your heart pumps blood.

The type of echocardiogram you have depends on the information your

doctor needs.

 Transthoracic echocardiogram
 Transesophageal echocardiogram
 Doppler echocardiogram
 Stress echocardiogram

INFORMATION FROM THE ECHOCARDIOGRAM MAY SHOW:

 Changes in your heart size

 Pumping strength
 Damage to the heart muscle
 Valve problems
 Heart defects

30
 3. CORONARY ANGIOGRAM
A coronary angiogram, sometimes called ‘cardiac catheterisation’, may be
done after a heart attack or angina.

A catheter (a small tube) is put into an artery in your groin, arm or wrist. The
catheter is moved up inside the artery until it reaches your heart.

A special dye is injected into your coronary arteries and an X-ray is taken.

The X-ray shows your doctor where and how much your coronary arteries are
clogged or blocked. It also shows how well your heart is pumping. Coronary
angiograms help your doctor decide the best treatment for you.

A coronary angiogram is a special procedure that takes dynamic x-ray

pictures of your heart.

The purpose of this procedure is to see if the coronary arteries are narrowed
or blocked and to look for abnormalities of heart muscle or heart valves.

You may undergo various tests before the angiogram, including blood tests,
an electrocardiogram, chest x-ray or cardiac CT.

31
 4.CORONARY COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
ANGIOGRAM (CCTA)
This is a specialised type of computed tomography (CT) scan that may be
used to help diagnose coronary artery disease. It is a non-invasive test for
people who may be experiencing unusual cardiac symptoms.

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) uses an injection of

iodine-containing contrast material and CT scanning to examine the arteries
that supply blood to the heart and determine whether they have been
narrowed. The images generated during a CT scan can be reformatted to
create three-dimensional (3D) images that may be viewed on a monitor,
printed on film or by a 3D printer, or transferred to electronic media.

32
 REFERENCES
 www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles
 www.mayoclinic.org/tests
 www.sanginihospital.com
 www.vikramhospital.com/blog
 www.radiologyinfo.org

THANK YOU....

33