Coronary Angiography

What Is Coronary Angiography?

Angiography is radiological imaging of blood vessels. Accordingly, coronary angiography is imaging of the coronary vessels. It is also known as cardiac catheterization.

Coronary Angiography Indication

Coronary angiography is a diagnostic tool that can be used to visualize the condition, i.e., form and function, of the coronary arteries. In particular, constrictions (so-called stenoses) are visualized.

Such an examination is performed, among others, on patients with:

• Coronary syndrome
• Angina pectoris
• Acute myocardial infarction
• Symptoms of chronic heart failure

Coronary Angiography Preparation

Before a coronary angiography is planned, it is essential to clarify which medications should continue to be taken and which should be discontinued. This must be discussed in advance with the treating physician. If the patient is very agitated, the administration of a sedative should be considered.

Coronary Angiography Procedure and Execution

A catheter is forwarded to the heart through the left forearm or inguinal artery during cardiac catheterization. First, the patient is given a local anesthetic at the puncture site. Next, a fine wire is placed into the artery, and a sheath is inserted into the artery entrance. Via this, the cardiac catheters are tubes placed into the vessel and forwarded to the heart. This is done under X-ray monitoring, followed by administering a contrast agent to make the coronary vessels visible. When the examination is finished, the instruments are removed, and the puncture site is closed with a pressure bandage.

Coronary Angiography Duration

The duration of an examination is usually between half an hour and several hours. This depends on the extent of the examination.

Coronary Angiography Risks

The complications of this examination are very low. Therefore, clinically significant complications are to be expected only in rare cases.

Coronary Angiography Aftercare

It is important after coronary angiography to avoid postoperative bleeding. Thus, bed rest should be maintained for approximately 6 hours. In addition, physical exertion should be avoided. Depending on the extent of the treatment, it may also be necessary to stay in the hospital for a few days.

Which Doctors and Hospitals are Specialized in Coronary Angiography?

Specialists in performing coronary angiography are cardiologists.

We can help you find an expert for your condition. All listed doctors and clinics have been reviewed by us for their outstanding specialization in coronary angiography and are awaiting your inquiry or treatment request.

Sources:

Hess, O. M.: Herzkatheter: Einsatz in Diagnostik und Therapie. Heidelberg: Springer, 2012

Bestehorn, H.-P.: Interventionelle Kardiologie. Koronarangiographie und PTCA-Indikation, Technik, Nachsorge. Stuttgart: Thieme, 2001