Coronary Angiography

Non-Invasive Cardiovascular Testing | Invasive Cardiac Procedures

Coronary angiography, also called arteriography, is a minimally invasive procedure done at the time of a cardiac catheterization in order to perform a live x-ray image (fluoroscopy) of the Coronary Arteries of the heart. A coronary angiogram is recommended to assess the coronary arteries when someone is having symptoms suggestive of Coronary Artery Disease. This occurs when cholesterol plaque accumulates along the walls of the arteries of the heart until the plaque will obstruct blood flow.

This process of plaque build-up (also known as atherosclerosis) can lead to exertional chest pain (stable angina), or an abrupt rupture of the plaque may lead to an Acute Coronary Syndrome / Myocardial Infarction (heart attack). A coronary angiogram will delineate with great accuracy the coronary anatomy, and enable your SPCVA Interventional Cardiologist to evaluate and treat your problem with either medical therapy, stents, or even bypass surgery.

A cardiac catheterization / coronary angiogram typically is done via access to the arteries in the wrist or the groin. The procedure takes about 15-30 minutes to complete, or an additional hour or so if stents are needed. Clear communication with you and your family will take place after the procedure – which is always a featured part of the excellent care from the physicians at South Palm Cardiovascular Associates.