[Efficient patient preparation in computed tomography coronary angiography].

Abstract

Background: In the coming years, a significant increase in the number of computed tomography coronary angiographies (CCTA) is expected, leading to an additional burden on existing structures.

Objectives: Discussion of effective processes and patient preparation in the context of high-volume CCTA.

Materials and methods: The relevance of patient education and optimized workflows in clinical practice, including pharmacological heart rate control and vasodilation.

Results: To conduct resource-efficient and effective patient examinations, comprehensive and clear patient education is crucial. This can be provided to the patient during scheduling or delivered digitally, so that the patient arrives with a thorough understanding of the examination process. In addition, targeted optimization of workflows tailored to CCTA is important. For high image quality, the administration of β‑blockers is necessary in most cases. This can be done intravenously to save time. The administration of nitrates immediately before the examination is recommended by current guidelines for all patients without contraindications and is ideally applied sublingually shortly before the examination.

Conclusion: The anticipated increase in CCTA will significantly strain existing structures not only in terms of reporting. Especially standardized and structured workflows pre- and periprocedurally are essential for handling a high number of examinations, while maintaining sufficient image quality in clinical practice.