What is a Catheterization?

This is a procedure to examine blood flow to the heart and test how well as check the heart for blockages. The doctor inserts a thin plastic tube (catheter) into an artery or vein in the arm or leg. From there it can be advanced into the chambers of the heart or into the coronary arteries.

Catheters are also used to inject dye into the coronary arteries, which is called an angiogram. Then a series of X-ray images are taken to help the doctor find narrowing or blockages in the arteries.

A cardiac catheterization enables the doctor to diagnose many common heart diseases by providing valuable information about your heart that cannot be obtained by other tests.

Reminders about your Cardiac Cath

• Do not eat or drink anything beginning midnight the night before the procedure

• Bring in all medications with you the morning of the procedure

• Bathe or shower the morning of the procedure · Wear comfortable clothing as you will be resting for the next 24 hours

• Be at the facility by the time given to you, a reminder call will be made the day before

• Following the procedure you will be observed in the recovery room for several hours and then fed lunch

• Make arrangements to have a family member or friend drive you home after the procedure

• Have an adult available to stay with you for 24 hours after the procedure

• You will receive a telephone call the following day after the procedure from one of our staff members

• If you experience any significant problems following the procedure, please contact the office or dial 911.

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