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Angiogram And CT Angiogram

Angiogram and CT Angiogram are advanced imaging procedures used to evaluate the heart and blood vessels. They help detect blockages, assess blood flow, and support accurate diagnosis and treatment planning for cardiovascular diseases.

ABOUT THE SERVICE

CORONARY ANGIOGRAM

Medical imaging is the technique and process of imaging the interior of a body for clinical analysis and medical intervention, as well as visual representation of the function of some organs or tissues.
Medical imaging seeks to reveal internal structures hidden by the skin and bones, as well as to diagnose and treat disease.

Coronary Angiogram
Before and During the Procedure

Before the Procedure

  • You may need to discontinue certain medications before the test, such as medications that thin the blood.

  • Fasting is required for four to six hours prior to your test.

  • You may undergo various tests before the angiogram, including blood tests, an ECG, and a chest X-ray.

  • Remove metal objects that may interfere with the test.

  • Empty your bladder before the procedure.

During the Procedure

  • You may be given medicine to help you relax, but you will remain awake.

  • You will be taken to the hospital's cardiac catheterization laboratory (Cath Lab).

  • You will lie on a table near a C-arm and other imaging equipment.

  • Your doctor numbs a spot on your groin or arm and inserts a thin tube (catheter) into an artery and guides it to the heart.

  • A special contrast dye flows through the catheter so the arteries can be clearly seen on X-ray images.

  • X-rays are taken as the contrast dye moves through the arteries.

  • You may be asked to hold your breath or cough for better angiographic views.

  • By studying the X-ray images, the doctor can identify problems in your coronary arteries.

  • If needed, your doctor may perform angioplasty during the same procedure to open blocked arteries.

Discomforts During the Procedure

  • You may feel slight pressure as the catheter is inserted.

  • Rarely, some chest discomfort may occur as the contrast dye is injected.

  • You may experience an urge to urinate during the procedure.

  • Nausea can occasionally occur.

  • You may feel a warm or hot flash sensation from head to toe for about 20 seconds when the special dye is injected.

  • During the angiogram, you will remain awake so you can follow your doctor's instructions.

Discomforts During the Procedure
After the Procedure

After the Procedure

  • After the angiogram, the catheter is removed from your arm or groin and the incision is closed with manual pressure, a clamp, or a small plug.

  • You will be taken to a recovery area for observation and monitoring.

  • Once your condition is stable, you will return to your room for regular monitoring.

  • You may need to lie flat for a few hours to avoid bleeding if the catheter was inserted through the groin.

  • You may be able to go home the same day, or you may need to stay in the hospital overnight.

  • Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast dye from your body.

  • Ask your healthcare team when you can resume medications, bathing, working, and other daily activities.

  • Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few days to one week.

  • The puncture site may remain tender for some time and may appear slightly bruised with a small bump.

Results and Self Care