What is cardiac catheterization?

Cardiac catheterization is the best method (the “gold standard”) for evaluation and definition of coronary artery disease (CAD). It is used to identify the exact location and severity of CAD.

 

What is coronary angiography?

Coronary angiography this part of the cardiac cathererization procedure, corresponding to the injection of contrast dye into the coronary arteries, thus making visible the artery contour under x rays, says Dr. Alexandru Mischie.

 

Why do I need to have a cardiac catheterization?

The cardiologist uses cardiac catheterization in order to:

– Evaluate or confirm the presence of heart disease (such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease or peripheral arterial disease).

– Evaluate heart muscle function.

– Determine the need for additional treatment (such as an interventional procedure or coronary bypass grafting).

 

How should I prepare for cardiac catheterization?

Before cardiac catheterization, most people will need an x-ray, blood tests, electrocardiograms, urinalysis, conducted a few days before coming exam. Leave all valuables at home. You can keep glasses, or hearing devices during the procedure.

Your doctor or nurse will give you specific instructions on what can and what can not to eat or drink before the procedure. You should fast starting midnight (the day of the procedure). Tell your doctor what drugs you are currently taking, including herbal preparations and dietary supplements. Ask your doctor what medications should be taken on the test day. It is possible to stop taking certain medications, such as anticoagulants (blood thinner for example Sintrom, Pradaxa, Warfarine, etc.), a few days before the procedure.

If you have diabetes, ask your doctor how you should adjust your diabetes medications the day of the cardiac catheter. In general, the drug “metformin” is discontinued 24 hours before the procedure and resumed 48 hours after the procedure.

Tell the doctor and / or nurse if you are allergic to anything, especially iodine, aspirin, Plavix, shellfish, latex or rubber products or penicillin-type drugs. You could return home the day of your procedure. Bring with you personal items (such as a robe, slippers and toothbrush) to make your stay more comfortable. If you are unable to get back home, talk to someone who can help.

 

All data on this site is purely informational and should not be considered medical advice. If you need a medical oppinion consult a physician.