Cardiac coronary angiography – A key diagnostic test in cardiology

Coronary angiography, also known as coronary angiography, is one of the most important diagnostic tests used in cardiology. It allows for a precise assessment of the condition of the coronary vessels that supply the heart with blood. In this article, I will explain what coronary angiography is, how the test is performed and what information can be obtained from its performance.

What is coronary angiography?

Coronary angiography is an invasive diagnostic test that uses X-rays to visualize the coronary vessels. During the examination, a special contrast agent is introduced into the coronary vessels, which allows the vessels to be visualized on the fluoroscopy screen. This allows the doctor to assess whether there are any narrowings, blockages or other abnormalities in the coronary vessels that may lead to coronary artery disease.

How is a coronary angiography performed?

Coronary angiography is an invasive test, but usually well tolerated by patients. Here are the steps it usually involves:

Patient preparation :

  • The patient is asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the examination.
  • Before the test, a sedative is administered to reduce the patient’s stress and discomfort.
  • The skin where the catheter is inserted (usually around the groin or wrist) is disinfected and topically anesthetized.

Catheter insertion :

  • Through a small incision in the skin, a catheter is inserted into the artery, most often through the femoral artery in the groin or the radial artery in the wrist.
  • The catheter is gently advanced towards the coronary vessels under fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray imaging).

Administration of contrast agent :

  • A contrast agent is injected through the catheter, which fills the coronary vessels and makes them visible on the screen.
  • The patient may feel a short-term feeling of warmth during the contrast administration.

Image Registration :

  • The doctor takes a series of X-rays that show blood flow in the coronary vessels.
  • These images allow for the assessment of the presence of stenoses, blockages and other abnormalities.

Completion of the study :

  • Once the examination is complete, the catheter is removed and the insertion site is pressed to prevent bleeding.
  • The patient will be monitored for several hours to make sure there are no complications.

What can be detected by coronary angiography?

Coronary angiography provides detailed information on the condition of the coronary vessels, which is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases:

Stenosis and blockages :

  • The test allows for the detection of narrowings and blockages in the coronary vessels, which may restrict blood flow to the heart and lead to angina pectoris or heart attack.

Assessment of the severity of coronary heart disease :

Congenital and anatomical defects :

  • Coronary angiography allows you to assess the severity of coronary artery disease and plan appropriate treatment, such as balloon angioplasty , stenting or coronary artery bypass surgery.
  • The examination may detect congenital anatomical defects of the coronary vessels and other abnormalities.

Assessment of treatment results :

  • Coronary angiography is also used to evaluate the effectiveness of previous interventions such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.

Advantages and risks of coronary angiography

Coronary angiography is a valuable diagnostic tool, but like any invasive test, it carries certain risks. The main advantages of the study include:

Precise diagnostics :

  • The examination provides detailed information on the condition of the coronary vessels, which allows for precise treatment planning.

Possibility of immediate intervention :

  • If strictures or blockages are detected, your doctor may immediately perform an intervention such as balloon angioplasty or stent placement.

The potential risks associated with coronary angiography include:

Allergic reactions to contrast medium :

  • Some people may have allergic reactions to the contrast agent used during the examination.

Bleeding or infection where the catheter was inserted :

  • There is a risk of bleeding or infection where the catheter is inserted into the artery.

Damage to blood vessels :

  • In rare cases, the catheter may damage blood vessels.

Heart arythmia :

  • Manipulation of a catheter in the heart can sometimes cause cardiac arrhythmias.

Summary

Coronary angiography is a key diagnostic test in cardiology, which allows for a thorough assessment of the condition of the coronary vessels and planning appropriate treatment. It is an invasive test, but is usually well tolerated by patients and provides valuable information necessary for the management of cardiovascular diseases. If you have questions or concerns about coronary angiography, consult your doctor who can thoroughly explain the procedure, discuss the risks and benefits, and answer any questions you may have.