During this injection, moving x-ray pictures are recorded. The catheter is then withdrawn. The doctor will study the x-ray moving pictures for abnormalities of the valves, check how well the heart is pumping, and look for possible blockages in the coronary arteries. The direction and the amount of blood flow through the heart is also measured. After review, the doctor will discuss the results with the patient.
Arteries can become blocked or narrowed when certain substances build up in the artery wall.
The increased blood flow through the arteries after PTCA reduces the likelihood of a heart attack. PTCA has also been used for the treatment of people with acute heart attacks. Successful PTCA seems to reduce the heart muscle damage done by the heart attack. It is not yet clear whether PTCA will become the recommended treatment for these people. The patient will receive a shot first to make the insertion of the catheter pain free.