Coronary Angiography

Coronary angiography, also known as coronary arteriography, is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the coronary arteries and diagnose coronary artery disease.

Procedure Overview

The procedure involves inserting a small catheter (a thin, flexible tube) into an artery in the leg or arm, and guiding it through the blood vessels to the heart. A special dye, called contrast agent, is then injected through the catheter and into the coronary arteries.

Step-by-Step Procedure

1. The patient is given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted.
2. A small incision is made in the skin, and the catheter is inserted into the artery.
3. The catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the heart using X-ray imaging.
4. Once the catheter reaches the coronary arteries, the contrast agent is injected, and X-ray images are taken to visualize the arteries.
5. The images are recorded on a computer or film, allowing the doctor to see the inside of the coronary arteries and diagnose any blockages or abnormalities.

Purpose and Benefits

Coronary angiography is used to:

• Diagnose coronary artery disease, including blockages and narrowing of the arteries.
• Plan treatment for coronary artery disease, such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatment.
• Identify other heart conditions, such as cardiac tumors or congenital heart defects.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, coronary angiography carries some risks and complications, including:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter site.
• Infection.
• Damage to the blood vessels or heart.
• Allergic reaction to the contrast agent.
• Kidney damage (in rare cases).

Preparation and Aftercare

To prepare for coronary angiography, patients should:

• Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure.
• Tell their doctor about any medications they are taking.
• Remove any jewelry or clothing that may interfere with the X-ray images.

After the procedure, patients should:

• Rest for several hours to allow the catheter site to heal.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several days.
• Follow their doctor's instructions for wound care and medication.

Contraindications

Coronary angiography may not be suitable for patients with certain medical conditions, including:

• Kidney disease or kidney failure.
• Severe allergy to contrast agents.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Alternatives and Related Procedures

Alternative procedures to coronary angiography include:

• Computed tomography (CT) angiography.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) angiography.
• Stress testing or echocardiography.

Related procedures include:

• Angioplasty and stenting.
• Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
• Cardiac catheterization.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a coronary angiography?
A medical procedure to visualize the coronary arteries.

Why is coronary angiography performed?
To diagnose and treat heart conditions such as coronary artery disease.

How is coronary angiography done?
Using a catheter inserted through an artery in the leg or arm.

What is used to visualize the coronary arteries?
A special dye that is injected through the catheter.

Is coronary angiography painful?
Typically not, but may cause some discomfort.

How long does the procedure take?
Usually 30 minutes to an hour.

Are there any risks associated with coronary angiography?
Yes, such as bleeding, infection, and reaction to the dye.

Can I go home after the procedure?
Usually yes, but may require overnight hospital stay.

How long does it usually take to recover from coronary angiography?
Typically a few hours to a day.

Will I be awake during the procedure?
Yes, but may be given sedation to relax.