Angiography is a process that helps in finding blockages present in coronary arteries (blood vessels present in heart). Angiography is also considered as one of the investigative test of heart bypass surgery. This process helps in determining further action of treatment.
Angiography procedures take anything between half an hour to two hours for completion. This time frame is dependent on the complexity of the patient's condition.
Fasting for minimum of 5 to 6 hours will be required before the angiography process. Patients on liquid diet will need around 2 to 3 hours fasting only. Emptying the bladder is necessary before the actual process begins.
The procedure for angiography begins with the surgeon ordering a ward boy or nurse to shave hair from patient's upper thigh part and groin, some part of the hand and for some cases also the chest.
Some mild sedative and local anesthesia is used before performing angiography. Local anesthetic is injected on the thigh's upper part (usually right thigh). An anti-allergen or sedative is administered via intravenouscannula on the patient's arm.
Once into the laboratory, patients are asked to lie on one narrow table. The doctor then drapes the patient is some sterilized cloth and leaves the exact area for performing procedure exposed.
A small tube made of plastic called sheath is placed into the patient's artery (any one artery from groin or wrist). A catheter (tin and long flexible tube) will then be inserted via this sheath to examine the artery.
The specialist medical professional (Cardiologist) will ensure that the catheter is placed in the exact place that needs examination. A contrast agent is then injected via this catheter to obtain various X-rays. This creates an arteries' map. It helps the cardiologist in visualizing if there are any blockages in the coronary artery, their location, number, size and other parameters.
Once the process is complete, patients are guided to recovery ward and asked to stay relaxed for some hours. This helps in preventing bleeding at incision site.
Most patients usually get in a position for leaving the hospital on same day of process. However, some patients may need overnight stay at hospital for observation.
