Coronary Angiogram & Cardiac Catheterization
What the Service Involves
This procedure involves the insertion of a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) into a large blood vessel, typically in the groin or arm. This catheter is guided through the vessel to the heart or coronary arteries. A special dye is injected through the catheter to make the arteries visible on X-ray, providing real-time images to detect blockages or other abnormalities.
Preparation
Patients are usually asked to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure. You should discuss your medications with your doctor, as some may need to be adjusted or stopped temporarily.
During the Test
The procedure typically lasts from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the complexity of the condition being treated. Local anesthesia is used, and sedatives may be provided to help you relax.
Benefits
This procedure is crucial for accurately diagnosing coronary artery disease and other conditions. It can also treat blockages in the arteries, reducing symptoms like chest pain and potentially preventing heart attacks.