What is a cardiac catheterization?
A cardiac catheterization is a procedure performed by a cardiologist and a team of nurses and specialists. The catheterization takes place in a lab with specialized equipment. During the procedure, a contrast dye is injected into coronary arteries so the vessels are visible on an x-ray screen. The results can immediately be reviewed by the cardiologist and will be used to diagnose the condition of your heart.
Important information must be provided to your cardiologist prior to having a catheterization. Your physician must be notified of current medications, as it determines the medicine used during the catheterization. Any allergies to medication or iodine, or the possibility of pregnancy must be communicated to your physician.
Preregistration
Please visit the admission department three days prior to your scheduled procedure. Please be sure to bring photo identification. (Link to online registration). Preadmission testing, if ordered by your physician, such as EKG or laboratory blood testing may be done at this time.
Prior to the procedure
You should make arrangements for a responsible person to drive you to and from the hospital.
The night before your cardiac catheterization, do not eat or drink anything, including hard candy or gum after midnight. Eating after midnight could result in a cancellation or delay of your procedure.
Showering the night before your procedure is recommended.
The day of your procedure
Please arrive at the hospital and check in at the admitting desk (enter through the outpatient admitting entrance). Bring a list of your medications, including the dosages. Include information on the last time you took dose. A hospital gown and belongings bag will be provided to you. Please leave all valuable items and jewelry at home. A nurse will prepare an I.V. site for medications that may be given during the procedure.
You will be asked to sign a consent form for the procedure. Prior to your scheduled time, you will be brought to the cardiac cath lab and prepared for the procedure.
The cardiac catheterization
You will lie flat on your back and remain awake (under conscious sedation) during the procedure, allowing you to follow your cardiologist's instructions. (ex. breathe deeply) Hair will be removed from your groin or arm, which will also be cleansed with an antiseptic. You will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area.
Your cardiologist will place a sheath in your groin or arm to gain access to the artery. The sheath enables the cardiologist to slide a small guiding catheter up to the entrance of the coronary artery. Through this catheter, a contrast dye will be injected that helps the cardiologist see the coronary arteries on the x-ray. During this time, a camera will move around your body and take pictures. The last picture will require a larger volume of contrast dye, giving you a warm flush throughout your body. This sensation is normal and will disappear in a few seconds. The last picture will give the cardiologist a clear picture of how well your heart muscle pumps.
After all the pictures are taken, the cardiologist will review them and notify you of the results.
Recovery
After the procedure, you will be instructed to lay flat for a few hours. It can vary from two hours up to six hours. If you are discharged home after your procedure, you will need to follow up with your cardiologist. You should be able to return to normal activities according to your physician's instructions.
Monitor the procedure site for any bleeding or oozing. A bruise at the site is normal. If there is any swelling or bleeding, notify your physician immediately. If you notice any changes to the area, sensation changes, color changes or temperature changes, report them to your physician immediately.
Follow your doctor's guidelines.
Return to normal activities gradually, pacing your return to activity as you feel better.
Check with your physician about strenuous activities.
Let your physician know about any changes in lifestyle you make during your recovery period.
Keep follow-up appointments, including laboratory blood testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I go back to work?
The majority of people return to work within a few days following the procedure.
What should I change in my diet?
Your physician may prescribe a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet to help reduce the levels of fat in your blood and reduce your risk.
The above instructions and information are to be used as guidelines only. Formal instructions will be given to you by your cardiologist and/or physician.
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