The document discusses what a coronary angiogram is and what the procedure involves. It explains that a coronary angiogram is an X-ray test done to check for blockages in the coronary arteries. It details what happens before, during, and after the test including being awake for the procedure, having a catheter inserted, and resting after. The results are then discussed with the doctor.
The document discusses what a coronary angiogram is and what the procedure involves. It explains that a coronary angiogram is an X-ray test done to check for blockages in the coronary arteries. It details what happens before, during, and after the test including being awake for the procedure, having a catheter inserted, and resting after. The results are then discussed with the doctor.
The document discusses what a coronary angiogram is and what the procedure involves. It explains that a coronary angiogram is an X-ray test done to check for blockages in the coronary arteries. It details what happens before, during, and after the test including being awake for the procedure, having a catheter inserted, and resting after. The results are then discussed with the doctor.
The document discusses what a coronary angiogram is and what the procedure involves. It explains that a coronary angiogram is an X-ray test done to check for blockages in the coronary arteries. It details what happens before, during, and after the test including being awake for the procedure, having a catheter inserted, and resting after. The results are then discussed with the doctor.
What Is a Coronary Angiogram? The coronary arteries supply your heart muscle with blood. They can become clogged from a buildup of cholesterol, cells or other substances (plaque). This
Right coronary artery injected with X-ray contrast dye to show blockage or narrowing inside of the artery Narrowing of right coronary artery
can reduce the flow of blood to
your heart. If a blood clot forms and blocks blood flow through that artery, a heart attack may occur.
Why do I need this test?
A coronary angiogram is a special X-ray test. Its done to find out if your coronary arteries are blocked or narrowed, where and by how much. An angiogram can help your doctor see if you need treatment such as angioplasty or stent, coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) or medical therapy. Procedures arent necessary for all blockages. Sometimes all you need to do is take medicines and: L ower your blood pressure. S top smoking. R educe the cholesterol in your blood. E at a healthy diet.
You go to the hospitals heart catheterization
laboratory (cath lab). You lie on a table near a camera and other equipment. Your doctor numbs a spot on your groin or arm and inserts a thin tube (catheter) into an artery and up to the heart. This will hurt no more than a blood test. Special fluid goes through the catheter so arteries show up well on the X-ray. X-rays are taken as the fluid goes through the artery. You may be asked to hold your breath or cough. By studying the X-ray images, the doctor can see any problems with your coronary arteries.
S tay physically active.
If you wish, you can see the X-ray pictures on the screen during or after the test.
What happens during an angiogram?
What might I feel?
You may be given medicine to relax you, but you will
stay awake.
Slight pressure as the catheter is put in
Rarely, some chest discomfort as the fluid goes in An urge to urinate
(continued)
ANSWERS
by heart
Treatments + Tests
What Is a Coronary Angiogram?
Rarely, nausea If a picture of the hearts main pumping chamber is taken (and its taken during about 2/3 of angiograms), youll feel a hot flash sensation from head to toe that will last for 20 seconds as the special fluid is injected. During the angiogram, youll be awake so you can do as your doctor asks. What happens after the test? The catheter will be taken out. A nurse or doctor will apply direct pressure for 15 minutes or longer where the catheter was inserted to make sure there is no internal bleeding. You will be asked to lie quietly on your back for several hours. You wont have to lie on your back if the catheterization was performed from an arm artery. You will go back to your hospital room or Cardiac Care Unit (CCU). You may feel sore where the catheter was inserted or from lying on your back. Your doctor will talk to you about the results.
HOW CAN I LEARN MORE?
Talk to your doctor, nurse or other healthcare professionals. If you have heart disease or have had a stroke, members of your family also may be at higher risk. Its very important for them to make changes now to lower their risk. Call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (1-800-242-8721), or visit heart.org to learn more about heart disease. For information on stroke, call 1-888-4-STROKE (1-888-478-7653) or visit us at StrokeAssociation.org.
After your angiogram, your doctor will discuss the results with you.
Do you have questions for the doctor or nurse?
My Questions:
Take a few minutes to
write your questions for the next time you see your healthcare provider. For example:
How long do I stay in
the hospital? Will I need surgery?
We have many other fact sheets to help you make healthier choices to reduce your risk, manage disease or care for a loved one. Visit heart.org/answersbyheart to learn more. Knowledge is power, so Learn and Live! 2012, American Heart Association
