Cardiac Catheterization and Coronary Angioplasty
What is Cardiac Catheterization and Angioplasty?
Cardiac catheterization is a procedure used to check how well your heart and blood vessels are working. If a blockage is found, coronary angioplasty can be performed during the same procedure to open the artery and restore blood flow.
Why is This Procedure Done?
This procedure may be recommended if you have:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Abnormal stress test results
- Known or suspected coronary artery disease
It helps your doctor see if arteries are narrowed or blocked and treat them right away if needed.
What Happens During the Procedure?
- A small catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the wrist or groin.
- Dye is injected to highlight the heart arteries on an X-ray.
- If a blockage is found, a small balloon is inflated to open the artery.
- A stent may be placed to help keep the artery open.
The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and many patients go home the same day or the next.
After the Procedure
You may need to take medications to prevent blood clots and will be given instructions for heart-healthy habits. Most patients feel relief from symptoms like chest pain shortly after the procedure.