Cardiac Catheterization
You may have had angina, dizziness, or other symptoms of heart trouble. To help diagnose your problem, your doctor may suggest having a cardiac catheterization. This common procedure is sometimes also used to treat a heart problem.
Before the Procedure
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Tell your doctor what medicines you take and about any allergies you have.
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Don’t eat or drink anything after midnight, the night before the procedure.
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You'll likely be admitted to the hospital on the day of the procedure.
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Know that any hair on the skin where the catheter will be inserted may be removed. You may be given medication to relax before the procedure.
During the Procedure
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You will receive a local anesthetic to prevent pain at the insertion site.
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The doctor inserts an introducing sheath into a blood vessel in your groin or arm.
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Through the sheath, a long, thin tube called a catheter is placed inside the artery and guided toward your heart.
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To perform different tests or check other parts of the heart, the doctor inserts a new catheter or moves the catheter or x-ray machine.
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For some tests, a contrast dye is injected through the catheter.
After the Procedure
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You need to remain lying down for
2–12 hours. -
If the insertion site was in your groin, you may need to lie down with your leg still for several hours.
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A nurse will check your blood pressure and the insertion site.
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You may be asked to drink fluid to help flush the contrast liquid out of your system.
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Have someone drive you home from the hospital.
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It’s normal to find a small bruise or lump at the insertion site. These common side effects should disappear within a few weeks.
When to Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
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Angina (chest pain).
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Pain, swelling, redness, bleeding, or drainage at the insertion site.
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Severe pain, coldness, or a bluish color in the leg or arm that held the catheter.
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Blood in your urine, black or tarry stools, or any other kind of bleeding.
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Fever over
101.0 °F .
