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Is Angiogram Advisable When Diagnosed With Ischemic Heart Disease?

Posted on Fri, 24 Jul 2015

Question: My family doctor wants me to get an angiogram. He says I have ischemic heart disease. My cardiologist says I have to feel comfortable about getting an angiogram and I am not comfortable about this invasive procedure. Or, should I get a CT scan? What would you recommend?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Angiogram is the much better option

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

If the EKG and stress test showed ischemic changes or if the EKG showed ischemic changes but the ETT / stress echo was inconclusive or could not be done then an angiogram should be done to look for the vessels involved based on which either angioplasty or bypass surgery can be offered. A CT scan would not be useful in identifying any blocked coronaries. You may discuss this with your cardiologist to take a more informed decision.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.

For future follow up / correspondence you may ask me directly at the link given below

http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/Funnel?page=askDoctorDirectly&docId=68107

Dr. M.S. Khalil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (58 minutes later)

The EKG and stress tests done at earlier dates were okay. The echo stress test was the reason my doctor wants an angiogram. I do have episodes of angina occassionally, but it is considered "stable" angina.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:
Hello.

Based on the stress echo , an angiogram is indicated. One needs to know the extent of coronary vessel blockade and involvement. I would agree with your doctor. However to be more certain you can get a clinical appointment with another cardiologist to have another opinion about it. If both agree then it would be wise to go through with it. Ultimately, its your decision.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar