Heart test
Cardiac Catheterisation
Cardiac catheterisation threads a fine tube into the heart’s arteries to check for narrowing and measure pressures, often with dye and X-rays (coronary angiography).
Quick answer
Cardiac Catheterisation: what it is and what the results mean
Cardiac catheterisation is an invasive test in which a thin tube (catheter) is passed through an artery or vein, usually in the wrist or groin, up to the heart. Dye is injected and X-rays taken to show the coronary arteries and measure pressures inside the heart.
- Why it is done: It is used to investigate chest pain, assess narrowed coronary arteries, plan treatment such as stents or bypass surgery, and measure pressures in heart failure, valve disease or congenital conditions.
- Understanding results: The cardiologist can often explain findings soon afterwards, showing whether the arteries are narrowed or blocked and what treatment is recommended, from medicines to stents or surgery.
What it is
Cardiac catheterisation is an invasive test in which a thin tube (catheter) is passed through an artery or vein, usually in the wrist or groin, up to the heart. Dye is injected and X-rays taken to show the coronary arteries and measure pressures inside the heart.
Why it is done
It is used to investigate chest pain, assess narrowed coronary arteries, plan treatment such as stents or bypass surgery, and measure pressures in heart failure, valve disease or congenital conditions.
What to expect
It is done awake with local anaesthetic and often light sedation. The catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin and guided to the heart; you may feel a warm flush from the dye. It usually takes 30–60 minutes, and treatment such as a stent may be done at the same time.
Understanding the results
The cardiologist can often explain findings soon afterwards, showing whether the arteries are narrowed or blocked and what treatment is recommended, from medicines to stents or surgery.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
As an invasive procedure it carries small risks including bleeding or bruising at the site, reaction to the dye, and rarely more serious complications such as heart attack or stroke. Kidney function is often checked because of the contrast dye.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Cardiac Catheterisation: frequently asked questions
Will I have a stent fitted during the test?
Sometimes. If a significant narrowing is found, the cardiologist may treat it with a balloon and stent during the same procedure (angioplasty), but this is discussed with you beforehand where possible.
How long is recovery afterwards?
Many people go home the same day or the next day. If the wrist is used, recovery is usually quicker; if the groin is used, you may need to lie flat for a few hours to prevent bleeding.
Related tests
Other heart test investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- British Cardiovascular Society / relevant professional body
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