Cardiac catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is a procedure performed to verify the presence and degree of narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries. These arteries supply the heart muscle with oxygen and nutrients so that the heart can pump effectively.  The most accurate way of seeing these arteries is by injecting x-ray dye (or contrast) into them during a cardiac catheterization procedure, which is also called coronary angiography.   Cardiac catheterization is a very common test performed many times a day. 

Coronary angioplasty (P.T.C.A.) is one of the methods performed to treat coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease is caused by the build up of plaque (fatty deposits) inside the blood vessels, thereby reducing or blocking the flow of blood through them. Angioplasty is a procedure used to open these narrowed or blocked arteries by using a special balloon which will improve blood flow to the heart muscle.