Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is a non-surgical procedure usually performed to diagnose coronary artery disease. A patient is given a mild sedative to aid in relaxation, but remains awake during the procedure so that questions relating to comfort, chest pain or shortness of breath can be addressed.

A catheter (a long, thin, flexible tube) is inserted through the femoral artery in the groin (or an artery in the arm). A colorless dye is injected through the catheter, and x-ray pictures are taken of the heart and coronary arteries. The test takes about one hour, and most patients are discharged the same day.

This test will help the doctor evaluate the patient's cardiac condition relating to:

• • • How well the heart muscle and valves are working
    • The extent of damage to the heart after a heart attack
    • Which coronary arteries are narrowed
    • What treatment, if any, is required – medical management, angioplasty or surgery