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A coronary angiogram is a special X-ray test that uses dye and special cameras to take pictures of the arteries that supply blood to your heart. The test is also called cardiac catheterization or coronary angiography. The test determines if you have narrowed or blocked arteries due to coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is the most common type of heart disease. It happens when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. Plaque is made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances in the blood. If CAD is not treated, it can lead to a heart attack. A heart attack happens when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of the heart muscle suddenly becomes blocked, and the heart can’t get the oxygen it needs. Book an appointment to have the best treatment.
Before the procedure
A coronary angiogram is a special X-ray test that uses a contrast dye to see how well blood is flowing to your heart muscle. The test is also called cardiac catheterization. You will likely be asked to fast for four to six hours before the procedure. This means no food or drink, not even water. You will also be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners. When it's time for your angiogram, you will be taken to a special room called a catheterization (cath) lab. You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted.
Procedure
During a coronary angiogram, a long, thin tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in the arm or leg and threaded through the blood vessels to the heart. Once the catheter is in place, a contrast agent is injected into the coronary arteries. The contrast agent helps the doctor see the arteries on an x-ray.
After the injection, the doctor will take x-rays of the heart. The x-rays will show if there are any blockages in the arteries. If there are blockages, the doctor can treat them with a procedure called angioplasty. During angioplasty, a balloon is inflated inside the artery to widen it. A stent, which is a small metal mesh tube, may also be placed in the artery to help keep it open. Visit our cardiology hospital in Bangalore for the best treatment.
The coronary angiogram procedure takes about 30 minutes. You will be awake during the procedure and will be given a sedative to help you relax. You may feel some discomfort when the catheter is inserted and when the contrast agent is injected.
After the Procedure
After a coronary angiogram, you are taken to a recovery area, where the doctors monitor you for a short period. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you can go home.
Resting for the remainder of the day and avoiding strenuous activity for the next 24 hours is important. You should also avoid driving for at least 12 hours after the procedure.
If you had a sedative for the procedure, it is important not to drink alcohol or operate machinery for the rest of the day.
You may have some bruising and soreness at the injection site. This is normal and will resolve in a few days.
You will be given information about your results before you leave. Your doctor will also discuss the next steps with you, which may include additional testing or treatments.
Experience world-class healthcare at Manipal Hospitals. Our expert team of doctors and state-of-the-art facilities ensure personalized and advanced treatments. Take the first step towards wellness. Book an appointment today.
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