Coronary Angiography is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that allows your cardiologist to visualize the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart. This procedure helps identify blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities that may lead to chest pain, heart attacks, or other cardiac conditions.
Why It's Done:
- To investigate chest pain (angina) or unexplained discomfort.
- To assess the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD).
- To guide further treatments, such as angioplasty or stent placement.
For patients with abnormal stress tests or EKG findings.
How It Works:
During the procedure, a thin catheter is inserted through a blood vessel in the arm or groin and guided to the coronary arteries. A special dye (contrast agent) is injected, which makes the arteries visible on X-ray imaging. The cardiologist can then detect blockages or irregularities in real time.
Benefits of Coronary Angiography:
- Provides accurate and detailed visualization of coronary arteries.
- Minimally invasive with a quick recovery time.
- Helps in planning appropriate interventions if needed.
It can prevent serious cardiac events by detecting problems early.