A study by an international team of cardiac imaging specialists, led by researchers at Johns Hopkins, concludes that sophisticated computed tomography (CT) scans of the heart and its surrounding arteries are almost as reliable and accurate as more invasive procedures to check for blockages.

The 64 slice CT scan that the researcher’s are talking about was first introduced in the US in 2005 and was tested at Johns Hopkins. Beware though, they are not saying that the CT scans will replace cardiac cath’s but to rule out patients that do not need the more invasive procedure. The 64 slice CT scan also proved to be a good predictor of patients that will need catheterizations in the future.

via Science Daily

Post from: Blisstree

64 Slice CT Scan Proves To Be Effective In Detecting Heart Blockages That Would Otherwise Look To Heart Catheterizations

Researchers found that 16 percent of these patients reported refusing one or more medical or surgical interventions recommended by their physician. The most frequently refused interventions were cardiac catheterization and surgery, with refusal rates of over 10 percent. Other interventions refused included chemotherapy, radiation, intubation, dialysis, and transplantation. Hospitalization was rarely refused.

I can not count the amount of times I sent a very elderly, frail, compromised, extremely sick and helpless patient off to open heart surgery, let alone stress tests and catheterizations. And what I really wanted to do was say, “You are the boss of yourself. You make the final decisions and can say no to anything you want to. If you were my Grandfather, I would say don’t do it”. But I don’t, at least not for the most part.

What do you think about the quality versus quantity? And what do you think about getting second opinions and saying no to physicians? Would you feel comfortable questioning a clinician? I am always amazed at how patients hold them up high and feel like they have no say in the situation. When it should be them who are being held way up high. Be your own advocate. Don’t you think?

via Science Daily

Post from: Blisstree

Refusal Of Cardiac Procedures By The Elder Population Common