How do I prepare for cardiac catheterization if I have diabetes?

Brigham and Women's Hospital

If you have diabetes, prepare for your cardiac catheterization (an x-ray that uses dye to see how the blood flows through the heart veins) by following these steps:

Take your usual dose of insulin the night before, including Lantus insulin.
If you take morning insulin, take only half of your usual dose.
Have the nursing staff check your blood sugar when you come to the hospital.
If you take diabetes medication by mouth, do not take your diabetes medication the night before or the morning of your procedure.

Continue Learning about Cardiovascular Diagnostic Techniques & Procedures

Intermountain Healthcare

During a cardiac catheterization (in which a thin tube called a catheter is threaded through an arte...

Anthony L. Komaroff, MD

Many tests used to diagnose heart disease involve radiation exposure, which is measured in milli...

Intermountain Registered Dietitians

Alternatives to an electrophysiology (EP) study include other heart tests, such as: ECG (electro...

Piedmont Heart Institute

Names used for nuclear heart scans: Nuclear stress test SPECT scan PET scan This answer f...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.