Coronary Angiogram

A coronary angiogram is a medical procedure used to visualize the blood vessels of the heart, specifically the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. The angiogram helps doctors diagnose and assess conditions such as coronary artery disease, blockages, and other abnormalities in the coronary arteries.

Here's an overview of the procedure:

A coronary angiogram is a medical procedure used to visualize the blood vessels of the heart, specifically the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle. The angiogram helps doctors diagnose and assess conditions such as coronary artery disease, blockages, and other abnormalities in the coronary arteries.

Preparation: Before the angiogram, you will be given instructions to prepare for the procedure. This may include fasting for a certain period, discontinuing certain medications, and informing your doctor about any allergies or medical conditions you have.

Local Anesthesia: You will be administered a local anesthetic to numb the area where the catheter (a thin, flexible tube) will be inserted. The most common site of insertion is the femoral artery in the groin, but in some cases, it may be done through the radial artery in the wrist.

Catheter Insertion: Once the area is numb, the catheter will be inserted into the artery and threaded through the blood vessels until it reaches the coronary arteries. You may feel some pressure or mild discomfort during this process.

Contrast Dye Injection: A contrast dye is injected through the catheter into the coronary arteries. The dye helps make the blood vessels visible on the X-ray images, allowing the doctor to identify any blockages or abnormalities.

Contrast Dye Injection: A contrast dye is injected through the catheter into the coronary arteries. The dye helps make the blood vessels visible on the X-ray images, allowing the doctor to identify any blockages or abnormalities.

X-ray Imaging: As the dye flows through the coronary arteries, X-ray images are taken. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly during the image acquisition to reduce motion artifacts. Multiple images are captured from different angles to provide a comprehensive view of the coronary arteries.

Catheter Removal and Recovery: After the procedure is complete, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. You will be monitored for a few hours to ensure there are no complications. Most patients can go home on the same day, but occasionally an overnight stay may be required.

It's important to note that a coronary angiogram is an invasive procedure and carries some risks, such as bleeding, infection, blood vessel damage, or an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. However, serious complications are relatively rare.