The procedure is cometimes referred to as a coronary angiogram or coronary arteriography and is a special x-ray test used to examine the arteries and chambers of the heart. This procedure helps doctors to diagnose heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, defective heart valves, or congenital heart defects. The Catheterization Laboratory is similar to an operating room.
Sterile technique prevents infection.
The staff who perform the procedure wear gowns, masks, and gloves. This procedure generally takes 30 minutes to an hour for most patients. Besides obtaining diagnostic information, additional interventional procedures to treat cardiac disorders may be performed in the cardiac cath lab.