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What is a Coronary Angiogram (CAG)?
A procedure performed on the vessels in the heart is known as a Coronary Angiogram (CAG) or Angiography. "Angio" in Greek refers to blood vessels, and "Gram" in Angiogram refers to a measure in Latin. So, an Angiogram refers to the analysis or recording of the condition of blood vessels.
Angiography or Coronary Angiogram (CAG) is a process where X-rays are used to study the condition of blood vessels in the:
- Arms
- Chest
- Head
Any obstruction of the blood vessels is identified, recorded, and reported to the consulting doctor. Pregnant women and people with a history of:
Are not considered for Angiograms.
Angiograms are performed by placing a catheter in an artery or vein to be reviewed. An iodine dye is injected into the artery, which allows an X-ray to view the exact site of any blockage or tear in an artery. The results from angiograms can be viewed on traditional X-ray films, and with new technology, they can also be viewed as digital pictures.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat is a Coronary Artery Disease?
- The heart is a powerful muscular organ requiring an adequate supply of oxygen to function efficiently.
- Oxygen-rich blood is carried to the heart through three arteries that branch into a network of smaller vessels.
- Coronary Artery Disease affects the blood vessels (arteries) on the surface of the heart. These arteries bring blood (rich in oxygen and nutrients) to the heart.
- Ageing and other complex factors cause these ordinarily soft and compliant blood vessels to harden.
- In addition, fat, cholesterol, and minerals from the blood are deposited on the inner surface of the coronary arteries.
- When this material builds up, it forms a plaque that may restrict the blood flow through the coronary artery.
- Such plaque may also change the surface of the artery from smooth to rough, and these rough surfaces may stimulate the formation of a blood clot, which may slowly build up and narrow the artery even more.
- A blood clot can also build up quickly and abruptly close off the artery.
Why is the CAG Procedure Performed?
- A Coronary Angiogram (CAG) shows where the arteries are narrowed or blocked.
- It is performed to detect obstruction in the coronary arteries in patients with angina or chest pain.
- It may also be performed as the next course of treatment after a heart attack.
- Sometimes, patients with valve disease or holes in the heart undergoing heart surgery may be advised on Coronary Angiography.
How is an Angiogram Performed?
A thin tube called a 'sheath' is inserted into an artery in your arm or leg. Catheters are then moved through this tube to the part of the aorta near the heart. A special liquid called contrast medium or dye is then injected into the coronary arteries through the catheter.
- Using X-rays, the doctor can see how the arteries and heart chambers look. X-ray pictures are taken and recorded as a film (Cine Angiogram).
- The doctor may need to inject a contrast medium a few times to see the arteries from different angles.
- During the cag procedure, you'll be lying down securely.
- The pressure in your heart chambers and blood vessels can be measured by connecting the catheter to a gauge.
- Blood samples may be taken from the chambers. Your heart function and blood pressure will be monitored throughout.
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Book an AppointmentWhat About the Result?
A normal result means adequate blood supply to the heart. An abnormal result is when a Coronary Angiography test shows the following:
- Blockage of coronary arteries
- Places of blockage
- The degree of each blockage
These results can help your doctor decide on the right treatment for your heart disease. The information in this handout is not intended as a substitute for medical advice but is to be used as an aid in understanding ailment. Always consult your doctor about your medical condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
A coronary angiogram is a test that uses special dye and X-rays to look at the blood vessels (coronary arteries) in the heart.
It assists medical professionals in determining whether coronary artery blockages or narrowing may be affecting the heart's ability to pump blood.
To inject dye and capture X-rays, a narrow tube called a catheter is directed to the heart through a blood vessel, generally in the arm or groin.
Although preparation and recovery time may add several hours to the procedure's usual duration of thirty to an hour.
Before the procedure, you might be requested to abstain from food and liquids for a few hours, particularly if sedation is being used.
Afterward, you will need to lie still for a few hours to prevent bleeding at the catheter site and will be monitored for any complications.
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