Coronary Angiography

Coronary angiography is a medical procedure used to visualize the blood vessels (coronary arteries) that supply the heart with blood. It is typically performed to check for blockages or narrowing of these arteries, which can lead to conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, or angina (chest pain).

During the Procedure

Contrast Dye: A contrast dye (or contrast agent) is injected into the coronary arteries through a catheter, which is inserted into an artery, usually from radial artery of wrist or fromthe groin.
Imaging: X-rays or fluoroscopy (a type of real-time X-ray imaging) are used to capture images of the coronary arteries as the contrast dye flows through them. This helps doctors identify arteries that may be narrowed, blocked, or damaged.
Purpose: The procedure helps doctors assess the extent of blockages and determine the best treatment options, which could include medication, lifestyle changes, angioplasty (a procedure to widen blocked arteries), or coronary artery bypass surgery.

It is often done in cases of unexplained chest pain, chest pain or shortness of breathduring exertion, or a positive stress test (TMT) result.