Cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic tool used by heart specialists (or cardiologists) to evaluate the heart. Cardiac catheterization is an important method for detecting a range of heart problems. Specifically, the test enables physicians to view coronary arteries, which supply the heart with blood and oxygen.
The test is performed by inserting an intravenous (IV) line into one of the blood vessels in the arm, neck, or groin. A catheter is then inserted through the IV and into the blood vessel. The catheter is carefully threaded into the heart using an x-ray machine that produces real-time pictures (fluoroscopy). Once the catheter is in place, contrast material is injected and pictures are taken. This procedure can identify heart defects or disease.
Virtua has two all-digital cardiac catheterization labs at Virtua Marlton and Virtua Memorial. The labs allow Virtua's interventional cardiologists to diagnose and treat more cardiovascular conditions and feature:
- The clearest visualization of fine vessels
- Pinpoint diagnostics
- Immediate life-saving capabilities
- Ability to treat more cardiovascular conditions
Virtua cardiovascular program provides a wide range of care including cardiovascular prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. The program is staffed by a team of more than 100 board-certified cardiologists, experienced nurses in cardiac care and registered cardiovascular technicians.
Definition
Cardiac catheterization involves passing a thin flexible tube (catheter) into the right or left side of the heart, usually from the groin or the arm.
Alternative Names
Catheterization - cardiac; Heart catheterization
Risks
Cardiac catheterization carries a slightly higher risk than other heart tests, but is very safe when performed by an experienced team.
Generally, the risks include the following:
- Cardiac tamponade
- Heart attack
- Irregular heart beat
- Low blood pressure
- Reaction to the contrast dye
- Stroke
Possible complications of any type of catheterization include the following:
- Bleeding, infection, and pain at the IV site
- Damage to the blood vessels
- Blood clots
- Kidney damage due to the contrast dye (particularly in patients with diabetes)