What is it a cardiac catheterization?
Cardiac catheterization (or cardiac cath) is a procedure in which a small tube, called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, typically in the groin, arm or neck, that can be moved into the aorta of your heart. From there, doctors can perform tests and measure different pressures within your heart, perform imaging or take blood samples to check oxygen levels. Other procedures such as an angioplasty or stent placement can also be done at the same time as a cardiac catheterization.
Who needs a cardiac catheterization?
You may need a cardiac cath if your doctor suspects you have been diagnosed with or need treatment for certain health conditions such as coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis (clogging of the arteries), cardiomyopathy, congenital heart defects, abnormal heart rhythms or heart valve problems. It can often be combined or used in conjunction with other tests such as electrocardiograms or stress tests or if more detailed images or information about the heart is needed. Common symptoms that necessitate the need for a cardiac catheterization include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, tiredness, etc.
If you’ve recently experienced a heart attack or had recent heart surgeries or procedures, your doctor may also recommend a cardiac cath to assess how your heart is functioning post procedure.
What are the risks of a cardiac catheterization?
There are some risks associated with a cardiac cath, although complications tend to be rare. You may experience bleeding, bruising or infection at the insertion site or allergic reactions to the dye. You may experience heart arrhythmias before or after the procedure, blood clots or some pain at the insertion site. More serious complications include decreased blood flow to the heart tissue, a heart attack, stroke or sudden artery blockage. People with kidney problems may be more prone to damage due to the dye used. If you are pregnant, are trying to get pregnant or are breastfeeding you should inform your doctor before the procedure. Any concerns about the risks should be discussed with your doctor.
How do I prepare for a cardiac catheterization?
You will need to fast for a period of time and potentially cease taking specific medications such as blood thinners prior to your procedure – these instructions will be provided by your healthcare provider and shouldn’t be done on your own. Your health history should be discussed thoroughly with your doctor. Always follow the specific instructions given to you by your care team. You may need to plan for transportation or someone to accompany to you to your appointment, as you will be sedated during your procedure. Wear comfortable clothing and leave any valuables such as jewelry at home, as you cannot wear them during the procedure.
What should I expect after a cardiac catheterization?
On the day of the procedure, you will review your medical history with your healthcare team and may undergo a physical examination, as well as sign some consent forms. The procedure itself is typically done within a hospital or outpatient setting, in a room called a cardiac catheterization lab with a special x-ray and imaging machines. The table you will be asked to lay on may be tilted at times during your procedure, but safety straps hold you in place. You will change into a hospital gown and may have electrodes attached to your body. You’ll receive local anesthesia at the insertion side to numb the area – you may also receive sedation through an IV to help you relax. Local or general anesthesia may be used.
The doctor will insert the catheter into the blood vessel and carefully guides it to your heart. Contrast dye is then injected into the catheter and imaging will be taken which helps your doctor see any potential problems more clearly. Depending on the reason you’re having a cardiac catheterization, your care team will proceed based on what is needed. Common procedures include angioplasty, potentially with stent placement, coronary angiogram, cardiac ablation, right heart catheterization, heart repairs for congenital defects, biopsies, etc.
When the test is complete, the catheter is removed and pressure is applied to stop bleeding. You will be taken to recovery where you will be monitored following your procedure. Once you’re fully awake and your vital signs are stable, you can be discharged to go home with any post-procedure instructions.
If you notice any concerning symptoms such as redness, bleeding or swelling at the injection site, you should tell your healthcare provider. Always call them or 9-1-1 if you feel there is something wrong and it’s an emergency.