Cardiac Catherization and Coronary Angiogram

Cardiac catherization is an invasive, non surgical procedure done to study the arteries that bring blood to the heart muscle and to check the function of the main pumping chamber of our heart. During cardiac catherization, the cardiologist insert a small, hollow tube into an artery or vein, and then guides it into the heart using x-ray. The cardiologist injects contrast (x-ray dye) through the catheter to outline the arteries and to show any blockage or narrowing that may exist. The result of this test will assist in making the diagnosis of Caronary Artery Disease (CAD). Most patients have little or no discomfort during a cardiac catheterization. They may feel a hot, flushing sensation for several seconds when the contrast is injected into the main pumping chamber of the heart. The nurse will give medical staff for medication and reassurance throughout the procedure to ensure of comfort.