Cardiac catheterization is a medical procedure used to check for heart problems such as issues with blood flow and pressure and valve function. Using the results, your physician will formulate an appropriate treatment plan which may include bypass surgery, medication modification or angioplasty. Blockages that may be within the coronary arteries also can be visualized during cardiac catheterization by using ultrasound which utilizes waves of sound to outline detailed structures found within the heart.
Preparing for Cardiac Catheterization
A chest X-ray, electrocardiogram and blood tests will be ordered prior to the procedure to assure that you are in optimal health before undergoing catheterization. This is usually done any time within 14 days of the performance of the procedure.
Notify Your Doctor About Your Allergies
Alert the physician to any allergies you have such as shellfish, rubber or latex products, iodine and medications such as penicillin. Since the dye and surgical equipment used for this procedure may contain some of these, it is important to let the doctor know your allergy status to prevent any adverse reaction during or after the procedure.
Follow All Instructions Regarding Medications, Food or Water Before the Test
Specific instructions will be given to you by your doctor regarding what medications you should take on the day the procedure is done. This is very important if you have conditions such as diabetes which may require careful adjustment of insulin. If you take a blood thinner such as Warfarin (Coumadin), you may be told to stop taking these prior to the procedure to prevent excessive bleeding. You may be also asked to refrain from any food or water the night prior to the procedure to prevent any risk of aspiration during the test.
Pack a Bag Just in Case
Cardiac catheterization is usually done on an outpatient basis but in some cases, your doctor may want you to stay overnight for observation. Being prepared for this will make things much less stressful. Things such as your toothbrush, robe and slippers will make you comfortable if you need to stay.
Understand the Procedureal Steps
During a cardiac catheterization, you will be awake and there is little to no pain. A flexible, thin tube is threaded into a vein in either the groin, arm or neck which is then passed into the heart. A special type of dye is then injected into the tube to allow an x-ray to be done which visualizes the coronary arteries and can identify any narrowing or blockages. If the blockage is minor, an angioplasty may be done. This procedure is done by putting a small tube shaped catheter in place to help open the artery up for better blood flow. If the blockages are more severe, you physician may recommend bypass surgery, which is usually done at a later time.
Going Home After the Procedure
If the arm was used for the procedure, it must be kept straight for approximately one hour. If the groin was utilized, you will need to remain flat for 3-6 hours to decrease any strain on the groin or abdominal area, and a dressing will be applied. If needed you may be given some medication to relieve any type of discomfort. Once you are discharged, you will be told to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye from your system.
Tags: prior procedure, usually done, blood flow, bypass surgery, coronary arteries, done This