Glossary term · Tests & reports
Coronary angiography (also: Coronary angiogram, Cardiac catheterisation, CAG): Coronary angiography is a procedure that uses contrast dye and X-rays, delivered through a thin catheter, to show blood flow in the heart’s arteries.
Coronary angiography shows whether the arteries supplying your heart are narrowed or blocked. A thin tube called a catheter is passed through an artery in the arm or groin to the heart. Dye is injected and X-ray images are taken. MedlinePlus says it can show whether plaque is blocking the arteries and how severe the blockage is.
How is it done?
MedlinePlus says you are usually awake, perhaps with a mild sedative. The insertion site is numbed. The procedure usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Afterwards pressure is applied to the site, and if the groin was used you may need to lie flat for several hours.
How do I prepare?
- Do not eat or drink for the time the team specifies. MedlinePlus mentions 8 hours.
- Tell the team about allergies, especially to contrast dye.
- Tell them about kidney problems or diabetes.
- Tell the team if you might be pregnant.
What are the risks?
MedlinePlus describes the test as very safe with an experienced team but notes a slightly higher risk than other heart tests. The dye can affect the kidneys, especially in people with diabetes or kidney problems. Other risks include bleeding and infection at the site.
What can happen next?
If a blockage is found, the cardiologist may open it with angioplasty in the same procedure or later. Your heart team decides between medicines, angioplasty or bypass surgery.
Send the images
For a surgical opinion, send the angiography video files on disc as DICOM, not only the written report.
Questions people ask
Can my angiogram from home be used in India?
Often yes, if it is recent and the images are clear. Send the full DICOM study. The cardiologist decides whether it is enough or whether a fresh angiogram is needed.
Do I need to stop any medicines first?
Tell the team about every medicine you take. MedlinePlus specifically mentions sildenafil, avanafil, tadalafil and similar drugs. Do not stop blood thinners or other medicines unless the cardiologist tells you to.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.