procedure

Last reviewed 01/2018

This procedure involves the insertion of catheter into an artery or vein. An artery is used if one wishes to examine the left heart and perform a coronary arteriogram. A vein is used if right heart imaging is required. The catheter is manipulated within the heart and great vessels.

Pressure measurements, blood samples and assessment of oxygen saturation can be performed. The injection of radio-opaque contrast fluid under cine-radiography permits the analysis of blood flow and cardiovascular anatomy.

With this procedure it is also possible to insert angioplasty and valvuloplasty balloons and to perform cardiac biopsy.