INVASIVE TESTING

CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION

What is Cardiac Catheterization?

Cardiac catheterization is a non-surgical procedure that can be done on an outpatient basis in many cases. The procedure allows physicians to find out how well the heart and coronary arteries are working. To perform this procedure, a flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel and guided gently toward your heart. Coronary arteries, heart valves and chambers are then evaluated, and clots, narrowed vessels and abnormalities can be treated. Other blood vessels can also be assessed if necessary.

Why are Cardiac procedures done?

You may have had symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pressure or pain, dizziness, palpitations, high blood pressure, passing out or other Cardio-Vascular symptoms. Your physician may have found signs or symptoms, which a Catheterization may identify more precisely.

NON-INVASIVE CARDIO-VASCULAR TESTING
WHAT TO EXPECT

NON-INVASIVE CARDIO-VASCULAR testing (requires no radiation and on occasion an I.V. for pharmacological testing) These procedures require approximately an hour to an hour and 30 minutes. No preparation by the patient is necessary and there are typically no side effects from this type of testing.

Cardiac testing:

Non-invasive cardiac testing includes cardiac ultrasound – cardiac Stress Testing – 24 hour Holter recording, and exercise echocardiograms.

Vascular testing:

Non-invasive vascular testing includes cerebral vascular evaluation; peripheral venous evaluation; and, peripheral arterial evaluation.

For more information, call (805) 546-7618.