Coronary Angiography

Coronary Angiography is a specialized medical procedure used to visualize the coronary arteries—the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood. This procedure is crucial for diagnosing and assessing the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). Where the arteries become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup.

Coronary Angiography Explained

During a coronary angiography, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or arm, and guided through the blood vessels to the coronary arteries. Once in place, a contrast dye is injected through the catheter into the coronary arteries. This dye is visible on X-ray images. Allowing doctors to see the flow of blood through the arteries and identify any blockages or narrowing.

The X-ray images, known as angiograms, provide detailed views of the coronary arteries. Helping healthcare providers determine the location, extent, and severity of blockages. If significant blockages are found, additional procedures like angioplasty (where a balloon is used to open the artery). Or stent placement (where a small mesh tube is inserted to keep the artery open) may be performed during the same session.

Coronary angiography is typically performed when a patient has symptoms of coronary artery disease, such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath.   Or when other tests suggest the presence of heart disease. It can also be used in emergency situations, such as during a heart attack, to quickly identify and treat blocked arteries.

While coronary angiography is a highly effective diagnostic tool, it is an invasive procedure and carries some risks. Including bleeding, infection, or allergic reactions to the contrast dye. However, it remains the gold standard for diagnosing coronary artery disease and planning appropriate treatment strategies.

In summary, coronary angiography is a critical procedure in cardiology. Providing detailed images of the coronary arteries and playing a key role in diagnosing and treating coronary artery disease.