Detect Arterial Issues with a Coronary Angiogram
A coronary angiogram is a treatment that utilizes X-ray imaging to provide a clear view of the blood vessels. It is a useful test for spotting any irregularities, such as restricted blood flow to the heart. The Coronary Angiogram is the most common of the group of procedures known as Cardiac catheterization. It can help diagnose underlying heart conditions.
The Coronary Angiogram Procedure
To begin, the doctor performing the procedure will inject a dye into the blood vessels. The dye can be seen through the X-ray imaging and is useful in pinpointing areas of the body that a typical X-ray can’t catch on its own.
The X-ray will take a series of images to give the doctor a better view of the blood vessels. It can help identify clogged heart arteries that can then be opened for optimal blood flow.
Common Reasons to Undergo a Coronary Angiogram
A coronary angiogram may be recommended to anyone who has had experience with the following:
• Pain in the chest, jaw, neck, or arms that can’t be explained
• Chest injuries
• Blood vessel problems
• Heart valve problems that require surgery
A Coronary Angiogram has a small risk of complications and should not be performed until the prospective patient undergoes heart tests.
Risks Involved with the Coronary Angiogram
The heart is a vital and very sensitive organ. When any type of procedure is performed on it, there are chances that risks might occur and the Coronary Angiogram is no different. Even though severe complications are rare, it’s important to know the full details of the procedure before going through with it. Some of the risks and complications from this treatment include:
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Kidney damage
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection
You can learn more about the potential risks and complications by discussing the details of the treatment with your doctor.
Preparing Yourself to Undergo a Coronary Angiogram
There are some instances where a Coronary Angiogram is performed on an emergency basis, but more commonly than not, patients will have enough time to prepare for the it in advance. Your doctor will talk to you about any medications you should take and provide you with a schedule to take them.
You should avoid eating or drinking after midnight before the procedure. If you have any underlying health conditions that your doctor needs to be made aware of, you should do so in order to avoid any unnecessary complications. Following these instructions can help ensure a successful treatment.
What You Can Expect From the Procedure
A Coronary Angiogram can help your doctor find out exactly what’s wrong with the blood vessels. It can give an idea of how many coronary arteries are blocked or narrowed by fatty plaques. It can highly blockages in your blood vessels and show how much blood flow has been blocked. These details can give a doctor a clear idea of the heart’s condition and help the doctor decide on the best treatment available based on the findings.
Contact Our Office
To learn more about coronary angiogram, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shehzad Sami. With his help and guidance, you’ll be well on your way to a healthy heart and a healthy life.