Cardiac Catheterization (angiogram or cath) is a test which involves placing a very small tube or catheter through an artery in your groin or your arm.

The catheter is slowly advanced to your coronary arteries. A dye is squirted into the catheter, and x-ray pictures are taken showing the location and the amount of blockage of these arteries. This test can also show how well the heart is functioning.

Angioplasty (PTCA, or percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty) is performed in the catheterization lab. A special catheter with a balloon is placed in the narrowed heart artery. The balloon is inflated briefly, compressing the blockage and allowing more blood to flow to the heart muscle, then removed.

In addition to balloon angioplasty, other devices can be used to open blocked arteries. These include lasers, a rotating blade and an extraction catheter to remove debris.

In addition, a stent, or a small wire spring device, may be expanded and left in place at the site of blockage. The technique(s) used depends on the type of blockage and the judgment of your physician.

Patients going to the catheterization laboratory must have an empty stomach. Some patients are allergic to the dye, or contrast, used for the test, and should be premedicated to prevent a reaction.

After your procedure, you will need to lie on your back with your head slightly elevated for about 6 - 8 hours. You will be taught to keep the leg where the catheter was straight. A nurse will check your heart rate, blood pressure and respiration often.