They will gently push this catheter into the major blood vessels and the heart. With special instruments contained in the catheter, physicians will be able to study how the heart and blood vessels are performing. One of the most common uses of catheterization is to view blockages in the arteries that are the source of chest pain. If not treated, these blockages can eventually lead to a heart attack, in which case the catheterization is done as an emergency procedure. Catheterization, coronary angiography, and angioplasty are done routinely by cardiologists and are considered quite safe today.
Side effects are uncommon and usually minor.
The medical team performing catheterization is well equipped to handle any problems that you may experience during the procedure. Here's a great overview, including photos, of the procedure. Interactive Heart Get straight to the heart of the matter with a virtual tour. If you have concerns about your heart or any aspect of your health, an Alliance Primary Care physician can help. Copyright 1999 The Health Alliance.