Coronary angiography or cardiac catheterization (cath) is one of the most useful tests to diagnose hardening (atherosclerosis) of the coronary arteries.
In this test, a colorless contrast dye is injected into the coronary arteries via a very thin and flexible plastic tube inserted in the groin. This allows the doctor to see – on a digital imaging screen – the exact location where the artery is narrowed or blocked if any. Dr. Caceres will explain in detail about the procedure, and answer any questions that you may have about it.
The test is performed as an outpatient, in an area of the hospital called the cath lab. The night prior to the test, do not eat or drink anything after
In the hospital, a basic blood tests will be done. The coronary angiogram is a safe and painless diagnostic test, and not a surgical procedure. You will receive local anesthesia and a sedative to help you relax. It is important for you to remain awake, and follow Dr. Caceres’ instructions, if necessary, to improve the quality of the pictures.
Cine of the coronary arteries is taken from different angles with a camera above you. A TV screen shows the size and shape of your heart arteries as well as the function of your heart. Sometimes, ultrasonogram of one of the coronary arteries is performed, to determine the nature of the plaque and the severity of the plaque(s). At the end, the tiny opening in the groin artery is then closed with a collagen plug. No sutures are involved. Afterwards, you will rest for about two hours, and be ready to go home.
The digital images are stored in the hospital computer. Dr. Caceres will carefully review these pictures and discuss the final results with you. A copy of the test is burnt in CD, and given to you to keep.
You may resume your normal activities as instructed by the hospital nurse and your doctor. You may feel a small soft to firm lump under the skin on the right groin. Occasionally, the skin in this area will look bruised and slightly swollen. This is normal and will heal in a few days. The area will heal faster if it is left uncovered.
You may resume to take your medications as instructed by your doctor, plus any other new medications if necessary. Keep your follow up appointments after the cath.
Call your doctor if you notice any of the following:
- A large amount of bruising or swelling
- Pain or bright red bleeding on the groin
- Redness, warmth, or tenderness on a groin
- Temperature of 101.5 F or more
In summary, cardiac cath will show:
- If any of the coronary arteries are narrowed, and the exact location of the partial or complete blockage
- How well the main pumping chamber of the heart is functioning
- If the heart muscle has been damaged
- If some heart valves are working properly
