Coronary angiography is a procedure to obtain pictures of the coronary arteries. The coronary arteries are blood vessels that supply the heart muscle. Blockage in these arteries can cause angina or heart attack (myocardial infarction).
The procedure is performed as a single day or overnight procedure in hospital under local anaesthetic. Sedation can be used but a general anaesthetic is not necessary.
A catheter (fine tube) is inserted into the body (usually via the groin or wrist) and moved through the arteries (which you cannot feel) until it is positioned in the coronary artery. Contrast (X-ray dye) is injected and X-ray pictures are taken. You cannot feel the catheter moving within the body. A warm flush is felt when the contrast dye is injected.
X-ray pictures of the coronary arteries are taken (you may be asked to briefly hold your breath). Blockages can be readily identified and are sometimes rectified at the same procedure (see coronary angioplasty & stenting).
Coronary angiography is a safe and relatively simple procedure but there are very small risks including damage to the artery into which the catheter is introduced, stroke, heart attack, need for urgent heart bypass surgery, bruising, bleeding, infection.
After an angiogram you may need to lie flat for approximately 4 hours to ensure there is no bleeding. Heavy lifting and twisting movements should be avoided for 5 days.
