Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization, often referred to as coronary angiography, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the health and function of the heart's blood vessels. During cardiac catheterization, a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is threaded through blood vessels, usually from the groin or wrist, to the coronary arteries. Contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray imaging captures detailed pictures of the coronary arteries, revealing any blockages or narrowing. This procedure is crucial in diagnosing conditions such as coronary artery disease (CAD), heart valve disorders, and congenital heart abnormalities. In addition to diagnosis, cardiac catheterization can serve a therapeutic purpose, as interventional procedures like angioplasty or stent placement can be performed during the same procedure to alleviate blockages and restore blood flow to the heart muscle.