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Cardiac Catheterization and Intervention
For purpose of clear understanding, let us explain to you certain terms frequently used by cardiologists all over the world. Catheterization simply means passing catheters into ones body. Cardiac (Heart) catheterization is the procedure whereby catheters are inserted into the heart to take certain measurements and take pictures. Angiography is picture of a blood vessel. Coronary angiography is the picture of coronary arteries (coronary arteries are the arteries supplying oxygenated blood to the heart muscle). Coronary Angiography can be performed by invasive (by inserting catheters into the body) or non-invasive techniques like CT scan and MRI scan. Invasive coronary angiography is still considered the best technique for diagnosing blockage in the coronary arteries.
Intervention simply means any kind of mechanical treatment to correct certain underlying defects like a blockage in blood vessel, a hole in the heart etc. There are several kinds of interventions in adult cardiology; most common ones include angioplasty (opening up a blockage with balloon catheters) and stenting (insertion of metal scaffolding into the blood vessel to keep it open).
Cardiac catheterization and intervention is typically performed by inserting catheters into heart via blood vessel of the leg or arm under local anesthesia. Most patients receive conscious sedation (this puts one to twilight sleep) during the procedure. At Brookhaven Heart, we offer a full range of diagnostic and interventional cardiac catheterization services.
To prepare for cardiac catheterization, usually your doctor gives some instructions, which may include
- Pre procedure evaluation will be scheduled either in our office or hospital. You will be given information about the procedure, reason for its recommendation, benefits and risks, alternative treatments including no treatments. We will answer any questions you may have and then be asked to sign an informed consent. Also some routine blood work will be performed at this visit.
- You will be given written instruction as to where and when to report to hospital. Do not bring jewelry, and other valuables. If you normally wear dentures, glasses or a hearing assist device, plan to wear them during the procedure to assist with communication.
- Do not eat or drink for 6 hours prior to the procedure.
- Ask your doctor what medications should be taken on the day of your test.
- If you are a diabetic taking insulin or other medications, ask your physician how to adjust your medications the day of your test. Also if you are on blood thinners like Coumadin, inform your doctor.
- Tell your doctor and/or nurses if you are allergic to anything, especially iodine, shellfish, x-ray dye, penicillin-type medications, latex or rubber products (such as rubber gloves or balloons).
- If you have kidney disease, your doctor may prescribe some medications to take, starting from the day prior to procedure.
- If you have prior allergy to iodine containing dye, your doctor will prescribe medications starting the day before to reduce the chances of having such allergic reactions during the test.
- Once you reach hospital, you will be asked to change into a gown and then lie on a hospital bed. An intravenous line will be placed, blood may be drawn and IV fluids may be started. You will be called for procedure when the room is ready.
- After the procedure, if catheterization reveals no significant blockages, and no untoward events happen, you can expect to be discharged home in 4-6 hours. If you have blockages requiring further treatment like angioplasty or stents then you will be admitted to hospital after the procedure. When you are able to return home, arrange for a companion to bring you home.
- After the procedure doctor will discuss the results with you and the family member whom you authorize to.
- You will be given written instructions at time of discharge regarding any restrictions in activity, resuming medications and work.
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