Cardiac Catheterization and Angiography: Understanding When Invasive Tests Are Needed
The heart is one of the most essential organs in the body. When it doesn’t work as it should, doctors need accurate ways to find out why. One of the most detailed ways to check the heart is through cardiac catheterization and angiography . These tests help doctors see inside the blood vessels and heart chambers. While they are invasive, they are often necessary when other tests don’t provide enough answers. They provide real-time, clear information on blood flow and potential blockages that could lead to serious heart problems. What Is Cardiac Catheterization? Cardiac catheterization is a test where a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel. This is usually done in the wrist or groin. The catheter is then guided through the blood vessels to the heart. The doctor uses a special monitor to watch the tube as it moves. This test helps measure how well the heart is pumping. It can also measure pressure in the heart chambers and assess how the valves function. ...