A coronary angiogram is a type of imaging test that is used to diagnose and treat coronary artery disease. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses X-rays and a special dye to create detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels.
When is a coronary angiogram performed?
A coronary angiogram is typically performed when a patient is experiencing chest pain or other symptoms of coronary artery disease. It can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for coronary artery disease.
When would a coronary angiogram be needed?
A coronary angiogram may be needed if a patient has a history of coronary artery disease, has had a heart attack, or has a family history of coronary artery disease. It may also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for coronary artery disease.
Who performs a coronary angiogram?
A coronary angiogram is typically performed by a cardiologist or a radiologist.
How does a coronary angiogram work?
A coronary angiogram is performed by inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel in the arm or leg. The catheter is then guided to the heart, where a special dye is injected into the coronary arteries. The dye helps to create detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels.
How do I prepare for a coronary angiogram?
Before a coronary angiogram, you should discuss any medications you are taking with your doctor. You may also need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
What to expect on the date of a coronary angiogram?
On the day of the procedure, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. You will be given a sedative to help you relax during the procedure.
What to expect during a coronary angiogram?
During the procedure, the doctor will insert a catheter into a blood vessel in your arm or leg. The catheter will be guided to the heart, where a special dye will be injected into the coronary arteries. The dye will help to create detailed images of the heart and its blood vessels.
What to expect after a coronary angiogram?
After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours to make sure there are no complications. You may experience some bruising or soreness at the site of the catheter insertion.
What are the risks of a coronary angiogram?
The risks of a coronary angiogram include bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to the dye.
What type of results do you get and what do the results mean?
The results of a coronary angiogram can help your doctor diagnose and treat coronary artery disease. The results will show any blockages or narrowing of the coronary arteries.
When should I know the results of my coronary angiogram?
Your doctor will discuss the results of your coronary angiogram with you.
When should I call my doctor?
If you experience any chest pain or other symptoms of coronary artery disease, you should call your doctor right away.
References:
1. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Coronary angiogram. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/coronary-angiogram/about/pac-20384590
2. American Heart Association. (2020). Coronary angiogram. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/coronary-angiogram
3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Coronary angiogram. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/coronary-angiogram
Keywords: coronary angiogram, imaging test, coronary artery disease, X-rays, catheter, results, chest pain, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments.