Coronary angiogram

Coronary Angiogram

A coronary angiogram is a diagnostic procedure that uses X-ray imaging to see the heart's blood vessels. It is part of a general group of procedures known as cardiac catheterization. This test is often done to see if there's a restriction in blood flow going to the heart.

Indications

Coronary angiograms are used to diagnose and evaluate several heart conditions, including:

• Coronary artery disease
• Angina pectoris
• Myocardial infarction
• Heart failure

Procedure

The procedure involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel in the arm or groin and threading it to the heart. A special dye (contrast material) is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken to see how the dye moves through the coronary arteries.

Preparation

Before the procedure, patients may be asked to:

• Avoid eating or drinking for several hours.
• Inform the doctor of any medications or allergies.
• Arrange for someone to drive them home after the procedure.

During the Procedure

• The patient is awake but sedated.
• A local anesthetic is applied to the insertion site.
• The catheter is guided to the coronary arteries.
• Contrast dye is injected, and X-ray images are taken.

After the Procedure

• The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding.
• Patients are monitored for a few hours before being discharged.
• Instructions are given for care at home, including avoiding strenuous activities for a short period.

Risks

While generally safe, coronary angiograms carry some risks, including:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site
• Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
• Arrhythmia
• Heart attack
• Stroke

Alternatives

Other tests that may be used to evaluate coronary artery disease include:

• CT coronary angiogram
• Stress test
• Echocardiogram

See Also

• Cardiology
• Interventional cardiology
• Percutaneous coronary intervention

References

• American Heart Association. "Understanding Coronary Angiography." Retrieved from [1]
• Mayo Clinic. "Coronary Angiogram." Retrieved from [2]

External Links

• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute - Coronary Angiography