What is Coronary Angiography?

Coronary Angiography

Coronary angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. It helps detect blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities in these arteries, which can lead to conditions like coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attacks, or angina.

Procedure

1. Preparation: The patient is given a mild sedative, and a local anesthetic is applied to the access site (usually the wrist or groin).

2. Catheter Insertion: A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into an artery and guided toward the coronary arteries using X-ray imaging.

3. Contrast Dye Injection: A special contrast dye is injected through the catheter, making the arteries visible on X-ray.

4. Imaging: A series of X-ray images (angiograms) are taken to assess blood flow and identify blockages or narrowing.

5. Completion: The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding.

Why Is It Done?

Coronary angiography is recommended when a patient has:

✅ Chest pain (angina)

✅ Shortness of breath

✅ Unexplained fatigue or dizziness

✅ Suspected coronary artery disease

✅ Positive results from a stress test

✅ Recent heart attack

Possible Next Steps

• If significant blockages are found, doctors may recommend:

  🔹 Angioplasty & Stenting – To open narrowed arteries

  🔹 Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) – For severe cases requiring surgery

  🔹 Medication & Lifestyle Changes – For minor blockages