CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY

Coronary angiography is a procedure to visualise the coronary arteries supplying the heart muscle using X-ray imaging.

Why Is a Coronary Angiogram Required?

The test is done to detect and localise any narrowings that  are blocking the flow of blood to your heart.  It may be combined with physiogical assessment to decide whether treatment is required.

What Is The Procedure For Coronary Angiogram

This procedure is usually performed through a blood vessel in the arm called radial artery but can also be undertaken when required from the femoral artery at the top of the leg.  Local anaesthetic is injected and a small tube with a valve on (sheath) is placed in the artery which acts as an access point for the procedure.

Catheters (long thin flexible tubes) can then be inserted through the sheath and guided carefully around to the heart.  Contrast is then injected through the tube and into the coronary arteries whilst an X-ray camera takes pictures.  You may feel some pushing and pulling where the tube is inserted in the wrist or groin, but you should not get any chest pain.   

The procedure usually lasts less than half an hour, but may take longer if there is a need to make ultrasound or physiological assessments of any narrowings.

If your procedure has been completed through the wrist, a tight bracelet will be applied as the tubing is removed from your rest.  You will be able to sit up straight away and go home shortly after.  If your procedure has been completed through the groin, you will have to lie flat in bed for some time and be monitored.

What are the risks of coronary angiography?

Angiography is considered safe and the risks are low.  There is a small chance of bruising at the wrist or groin which may take some time to heal.  There is also a chance of damage the blood vessels, or of a reaction to contrast used in the test, but these are usually minor and can be treated easily.  There is a very small chance of more serious complications such as heart attack or stroke.

Schedule An Appointment

Coronary angiography is an important test for the investigation of chest pain.  Our cardiologists are available for consultation on any day of the week and weekends as well.