Coronary Angiography

Angiography is a special type of x-ray that allows your coronary arteries to be viewed and recorded on film. Your doctor can see if the blood vessels to your heart are clogged.

Insertion sites may be in the groin or the arm.

Monitors let the doctor follow the catheter's progress during the procedure.

Before the Procedure

• Tell your doctor what medicines you take and any allergies you may have.

• Don’t eat or drink anything after midnight, the night before the procedure.

During the Procedure

• A long, thin tube called a catheter is placed inside an artery in your groin or arm and guided into your heart.

• A contrast dye is injected through the catheter into your blood vessels or heart chambers.

• X-rays are taken to to show clear photos of the inside of your heart and coronary arteries.

After the Procedure

• You need to remain lying down for 6–12 hours.

• If the insertion site was in your groin, you may need to lie down with your leg still for several hours.

• A nurse will check your blood pressure and the insertion site.

• You may be asked to drink fluid to help flush the contrast liquid out of your system.

• Have someone drive you home from the hospital.

• It’s normal to find a small bruise or lump at the insertion site. These common side effects should disappear within a few weeks.