A coronary angiography is a test which helps to see if you have any blockage in the coronary artery. The expert will inject a contrast dye into your arteries with the help of a catheter. In addition, the doctor will observe how blood flows through your heart. Let’s understand “what is angiography of the heart” and the coronary angiography procedure in brief.
The doctor will recommend a coronary angiography when they notice the patient has a risk of a heart attack. Or if they have chest pain, aortic stenosis, and unexplained heart failure.
How is a Coronary Angiography Test Performed?
The doctor will offer you a mild sedative which will help you to relax. However, you will be awake throughout the test. In addition, the doctor will clean and numb a part of your body. It might be in the groin or arm with an anesthetic. Further, you will notice a dull pressure, as a sheath is inserted into an artery. It is a thin tube known as a catheter which will be threaded to an artery in your heart.
During the procedure, the doctor will supervise the entire process on a screen. In addition, you may feel a slight burning sensation when the dye is injected. Make sure to drink more water after your test as it will help your kidneys flush out the contrast dye.
When is a Coronary Angiography Needed?
The doctor may suggest coronary angiography to the patient if they notice certain symptoms of angina or heart attack. In addition, if the health expert thinks you need to go through the process of conducting EP study and RF Ablation for arrhythmia. Further, if you have unstable angina, it is recommended when the diagnostic angiography (investigation) shows significant blockage in one of the main arteries of the heart.
You may need coronary angiography if you have the presence of coronary artery disease. In addition, if you have risk factors for heart disease such as diabetes or a family history of heart disease.
What is a Coronary Angiography Procedure?
A coronary angiography procedure is a step-by-step approach set by the heart specialist and health technicians. It helps to have a systematic approach to assist you during the entire procedure. Further, it begins with giving local anaesthesia, the process of catheter insertion, injecting contrast dye, and completion of the procedure.
The doctor carefully examines the X-ray images which are taken from different angles, and it allows the expert to visualize coronary arteries. In the end, you will be monitored for a short period to ensure there are no complications.
How to Prepare for a Coronary Angiography?
When you visit the clinic/hospital the doctor may consider a clinical evaluation and ECG and blood biomakes like Trop I before the test. It helps to pinpoint problems with your heart. Make sure that you don’t eat or drink anything for six to nine hours before the test.
When you appear for the test make sure to bring one family member with you. In addition, it will help if you have to stay a night at the hospital for any more treatment. The doctor will offer additional instructions for you to follow before the best.
In case you have any doubts, tell your health expert if you have any allergies. It is better to share all your health details with your doctor.
What Happens During the Coronary Angiography Procedure?
We have already discussed how CT coronary angiography is performed and what is the procedure. Let’s have a quick step-by-step review of the procedure:
- Prepping patient
- Inserting catheter
- Inserting catheter
- Guiding to arteries
- Injecting contrast dye
- Imaging arteries
- Catheter removal
- Monitoring post-procedure
What are the Common Risks Associated with Coronary Angiogram?
There is a high success rate in coronary angiograms, however, there are various common risks, such as:
- Blood clots
- Injury to the internal artery or vein
- Small risk of stroke
- Low blood pressure
- Small chance of a heart attack
- Internal bleeding
What to Expect after the Procedure?
After the procedure, your doctor will tell you to relax and drink plenty of water. Make sure that you don’t smoke or drink alcohol. As you were given an anesthetic, you shouldn’t drive or perform important tasks. Further, you can expect to remove the bandage after 24 hours. Lastly, you will receive some instructions from the doctor to follow after the procedure.
What is the Cost of Coronary Angiography?
Once people find out what is coronary angiography, they are curious to find the cost of the procedure. As it is understandable, that medical expenses are sometimes concerning for every individual. The cost of coronary angiography varies significantly on various reasons such as the location of the hospital, pricing structure, and type of facility.
There are other factors such as additional services or tests performed alongside the procedure. In case of medical complexity, such as stent placement then the overall cost may be higher. Further, the fees charged by the health expert are also included in the entire medical expenditure.
Conclusion
A coronary angiography test helps to assess the health of your coronary arteries and identify any potential blockages. In addition, if you notice any symptoms such as chest pain, or heart stroke, get in touch with the nearest clinic. If you have any doubts concerning your health get complete clarity from an expert such as Dr Chetan Rathi.
He is a well-known expert in treating heart-related issues. When it comes to the health of your heart, then make sure to get a timely diagnosis from Dr Chetan Rathi. Get relieved from future health risks and live your life at ease.
FAQ’s on Coronary Angiography
What is the Difference Between Coronary Angiogram and Coronary Angiography?
Coronary angiogram and coronary angiography are almost the same. It just has different terms for the procedure to check the blood flow in your heart’s arteries.
Is Coronary Angiography Painful?
Ans: During the procedure, the doctor will give you an anaesthesia to numb the area, thus the procedure will not be painful. However, you may witness some pressure or discomfort.
What is the Success Rate of Coronary Angiography?
The success rate of coronary angiography is usually high. However, the success rate depends on the health condition of the patient.
Which Angiography is Best?
Ans: It depends on the specific needs of the patient and the expertise of the medical team. Coronary angiography is commonly used for heart-related issues.
What are the Limitations of Coronary Angiography?
Ans: There are certain limitations associated with coronary angiography such as bleeding and damage to blood vessels.
