Coronary Catheterization
Why
is the doctor performing this test?
To determine
if there is blockage (plaque build up or atherosclerosis) within the
coronary arteries which reduces the flow of oxygenated
blood to the heart.
What is
the test?
A
coronary catheterization (also called a cath or
angiogram) is a non-surgical diagnostic test which allows your doctor to
see inside your coronary (heart) arteries. While taking X-ray pictures,
your doctor will guide a small tube called a catheter inside an artery to
the opening of the coronary arteries and inject an X-ray dye, allowing him
or her to visualize areas of narrowing in these arteries. If this plaque
buildup (also called atherosclerosis) is left untreated, the heart artery
can become more narrowed or crack, which can result in a heart attack.
Please
view the Coronary Catheterization Animation for a detailed visual
explanation of this procedure.
Patient
Preparation
- Do not eat or drink anything
after midnight the night before your procedure because you need to be
fasting for at least 8 hours.
- Medications should be taken
as scheduled unless special instructions are given. Do not take food
or liquids with your medications. If your medications need to be taken
with food/liquids, discuss your medication schedule for the testing
day with your doctor.
- Be sure to mention to the
doctor or nurse if you have any allergies such as allergies to x-ray
dye (contrast).
- Make arrangements with a
family member or friend to drive you home after the procedure--you
probably will not be permitted to drive. Family members and friends
can wait in an assigned area.
- Pack a small bag in case
your doctor decides to keep you overnight in the hospital. You may
want to include a robe, slippers, toiletries, and a book / word games
(something to pass the time).
- Leave money, jewelry, and
valuables at home unless a family member or friend can hold them for
you during the procedure.
- Bring a list of all
medications you are currently taking. Your doctor may want to continue
them while you recover from your procedure.
- Tell your doctor if you take
aspirin or a blood thinner because they may need to be stopped several
days before the procedure
Where is
the test performed?
In the
cardiac cath lab.
How
long does this test take?
Approximately
45 minutes to an hour.
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