Cardiac Catheterization

What is cardiac catheterization?

Cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic imaging procedure that allows your specialist to evaluate your heart’s function. They insert a tiny tube (catheter) in a blood vessel, often in your groin or arm, into coronary arteries to detect potential problems and fix them simultaneously if possible. This procedure is highly valuable for reducing the chance of a heart attack or stroke. 

What is cardiac catheterization used for?

Cardiac catheterization may be needed for:

• Determining the cause of abnormal heart rhythm or chest pain
• Taking a heart biopsy
• Assessing heart function
• Screening for pulmonary artery problems or blood clots
• Evaluating blood flow and oxygen levels in your heart
• Detecting coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, congenital heart disease, aorta diseases, and valve diseases
• Assessing damage after a heart attack
• Detecting narrowed or blocked vessels
• Placing a stent to open a blocked artery
• Aiding in heart transplant planning

You might need cardiac catheterization if other diagnostic tests haven’t provided enough information or to determine if you need heart surgery. It can diagnose aortic stenosis, cardiomyopathy, pulmonary hypertension, mitral valve regurgitation, and similar conditions. 

How can I prepare for cardiac catheterization?

Follow your specialist’s instructions to prepare for cardiac catheterization. They may ask you to avoid medications, food, and drink before the scheduled procedure. Make plans for a family member or friend to drive you home afterward.

What happens during cardiac catheterization?

You will change into a hospital gown before cardiac catheterization. Your provider places sticky patches on your chest and sometimes your legs or arms. They also monitor your vital signs and place an IV into your hand or forearm. You receive a sedative to help you relax or medicine that causes you to fall asleep. 

During the procedure, your surgeon inserts a flexible tube (catheter) into a blood vessel in your wrist or groin. They guide the tube to your heart and create images or complete minor procedures to unblock narrowed vessels. 

Your surgeon might complete cardiac ablation, angioplasty, stenting, heart valve replacement, heart biopsy, congenital heart defect repair, or similar treatments during cardiac catheterization.

What can I expect after cardiac catheterization?

After the procedure, you may need to lie flat for a few hours to reduce bleeding and optimize healing. You can rest in a recovery area while the Pinnacle Healthcare System medical team monitors you. Your surgeon reviews the results with you and determines if you need an additional procedure. Follow up with them and abide by your post-procedure instructions. 

Schedule an evaluation at Pinnacle Healthcare System by phone or request one online today to determine if you’re a candidate for cardiac catheterization.