Before the Procedure

• Your physician will explain the procedure to you and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions that you might have about the procedure. 
• You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the test. Read the form carefully and ask questions if something is not clear. 
• Notify your physician if you have ever had a reaction to any contrast dye, or if you are allergic to iodine or seafood. 
• Notify your physician if you are sensitive to or are allergic to any medications, latex, tape, and anesthetic agents (local and general). 
• You will need to fast for a certain period of time prior to the procedure. Your physician will notify you how long to fast, whether for a few hours or overnight. 
• If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, you should notify your physician. 
• Notify your physician if you have any body piercings on your chest and/or abdomen. 
• Notify your physician of all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements that you are taking. 
• Notify your physician if you have heart valve disease, as you may need to receive an antibiotic prior to the procedure. 
• Notify your physician if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin, or other medications that affect blood clotting. It may be necessary for you to stop some of these medications prior to the procedure.
  
• Your physician may request a blood test prior to the procedure to determine how long it takes your blood to clot. Other blood tests may be done as well. 
• Notify your physician if you have a pacemaker. 
• You may receive a sedative prior to the procedure to help you relax. 
• The area around the catheter insertion (groin area) may be shaved. 
• Based upon your medical condition, your physician may request other specific preparation.