Controlling rate and rhythm increases feasibility of CT angiography in atrial fibrillation.

A woman, aged 48 years, with severe rheumatic mitral stenosis and uncontrolled permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) underwent preoperative assessment of coronary arteries. Invasive coronary angiography was not possible because of occluded common iliac artery and bilateral radial spasm. Transesophageal echocardiogram showed a very large mobile left atrial appendage clot, precluding cardioversion. The severe motion artifacts during cardiac CT angiography (64 slices) due to atrial fibrillation were overcome by controlling rhythm and rate through insertion of a temporary pacemaker via right femoral vein, and slowing heart rate below 65 beats per minute by intravenous metoprolol (25 mg) and verapamil (5 mg). Clear pictures of all coronary arteries as well as the left atrial appendage clot were obtained. The temporary pacemaker was removed after eight hours. Uneventful mechanical mitral valve replacement and maze procedure were performed and the patient was discharged in a stable condition.