Download Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization

CARDIAC CATH PROCEDURES (MINIMALLY INVASIVE)
Diagnostic Cardiac
Catheterization
Definition
Cardiac catheterization involves passing a thin flexible tube
(catheter) into the right or left side of the heart, usually
from the groin or the arm.
Coronary angiography is a procedure that uses a special
dye (contrast material) and x-rays to see how blood flows
through your heart. It involves passing a thin flexible tube
(catheter) into the right or left side of the heart, usually
from the groin or the arm.
How the Test is performed
Coronary angiography is usually done along with
cardiac catheterization.
Before the test starts, you will be given a mild sedative to
help you relax.
An area of your body, usually the arm or groin, is cleaned
and numbed with a local numbing medicine (anesthetic).
The Cardiologist passes a thin hollow tube, called a
catheter, through an artery and carefully moves it up
into the heart. X-ray images help the physician position
the catheter.
Once the catheter is in place, dye (contrast material) is
injected into catheter. X-ray images are taken to see how
the dye moves through the artery. The dye helps highlight
any blockages in blood flow. The procedure may last 30
to 60 minutes.
Heart and Vascular Center
How the Test Will Feel
You will be awake and able to follow instructions during
the test. You will usually get a mild sedative 30 minutes
before the test to help you relax. Local anesthesia will be
used to numb the site. You may feel some pressure at the
site where the catheter is inserted. The test may last 30
to 60 minutes. Occasionally, a flushing sensation occurs
after the dye is injected. After the test, the catheter is
removed. You will feel a firm pressure at the insertion site,
used to prevent bleeding. If the catheter is placed in your
groin, you will usually be asked to lie flat on your back for
a few hours after the test to avoid bleeding.
Why the Test is Performed
Coronary angiography/cardiac catheterization is done to
get information about the heart or its blood vessels or to
provide treatment in certain types of heart conditions.
Considerations
If a blockage is found, your health care provider may
perform a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)
to open the blockage. This can be done during the
same procedure.
References: Davidson CJ, Bonow RO. Cardiac Catheterization