Cardiac Catheterization

A cardiac catheterization (also known as a heart cath or coronary angiogram ) is a special type of X-ray test performed by a cardiologist (heart specialist). This test allows the doctor to find any areas of blockage in the arteries that supply the heart with blood. A cardiac catheterization provides the doctor with a "road map" of the arteries in your heart, and helps in making decisions about the treatment of heart disease.

How do I prepare for a cardiac catheterization?
Unless you are already hospitalized, you will generally be admitted the morning of your procedure and go home the same day. Often, your doctor will order blood tests or an electrocardiogram (ECG) prior to the day of your procedure.

You will be told not to eat or drink anything after midnight on the evening before your cardiac catheterization. When you arrive at the hospital, you will be asked to sign a consent form, allowing the procedure to be done. It is very important that you have asked your doctor to explain the procedure fully, and have had any questions answered before signing the consent form. Most of the time, these explanations and questions take place at the doctor’s office, before the day of the procedure. However, if you have questions, be sure you ask the nurse who is preparing you on the morning of your cardiac catheterization.

The area where the tube or catheter will be inserted will need to be “prepped” prior to the procedure. The area to be prepped may be the groin or the bend in the arm. This area will be prepared by washing it with special soap, and clipping the area to remove any hair.

Where is a Cardiac Catheterization Done?
Cardiac catheterization is done in a specially equipped room called a catheterization laboratory (cath lab). Because there is a lot of specialized machinery in this room, it is kept somewhat cool. The table where you will be laying is narrow and somewhat hard. Overhead, you will see what looks like a large television screen. This is the screen the doctor will be watching during the procedure to see the arteries in your heart. To help your doctor see the pictures clearly, the room is kept slightly dark.

How is a Cardiac Catheterization Done?

Before starting the cardiac catheterization, the doctor will numb a spot in your groin or arm with medication. After the area is numb, a small tube or catheter is placed into the artery in your groin or arm. This tube is threaded up the artery until it reaches your heart.

By watching the special X-ray screen and using a special dye, the doctor can find the exact area of the blockage, if any exist. In addition, the doctor can inject dye and watch your heart contract. This test, called a ventriculogram, tells the doctor how well your heart is pumping. When the doctor injects the dye for this part of the test, you may feel awarm flush over your body. This sensation can be alarming but only lasts about 30 seconds.

During the procedure, many X-rays will be taken. The doctor, nurses and technicians may need to reposition the X-ray camera over you so that they get the pictures that they need to best see your heart.

After the Procedure
Following the procedure, the nursing staff will monitor you closely.
You will be placed on a heart monitor, and your blood pressure and pulse
rate will be checked frequently.

At the end of your procedures, the catheters will be removed from the artery. The nurse may apply firm, direct pressure over the area for 15 to 30 minutes to make sure that there is no bleeding from the artery. Instead of holding pressure, your doctor may decide to use a special artery closure device to close the artery after your procedure. If this is done, you will receive written information about this device. If the catheters were placed through the artery in your leg, you will need to remain in bed and keep your leg straight for some time following the procedure. During this time, you may have the head of your bed elevated slightly, and may turn onto your side with the assistance of the nurse. If the catheters were inserted through the artery in your arm, you will be asked to keep your arm still and may have tapes called steri-strips or stitches closing a small incision that the doctor has made over your artery.

In addition to resting, you will be asked to drink fluids to flush the dye from your kidneys. The nursing staff will obtain food for you — generally this meal consists of sandwiches and other “finger foods” (foods you can easily eat without sitting up).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a cardiac catheterization take?

The amount of time the procedure takes depends on how many arteries the doctor needs to work on, and their location in your heart. You will probably be in the cath lab for approximately two hours; but, keep in mind that some procedures take longer. Be aware that lengthy delays can occur due to an emergency with another patient.

Where should my family wait during my procedure?

Your family should wait in the Heart Center waiting room while your
procedure is being done. This is where your cardiologist will go to talk with them when the procedure is finished.

How long until I can see my family after my procedure?

As soon as your procedure is completed, you will be moved to the Heart Center holding area, or returned to your room if you are admitted to the hospital. As soon as the nurses have you settled, you will be able to see your family.

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