Cardiac Catheterization: Procedure, Types, and Benefits

What is Cardiac Catheterization?
Cardiac catheterization is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a thin tube (catheter) through the femoral artery in the leg or the brachial artery in the arm. This allows access to the heart and its major blood vessels. The procedure is performed for either diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

How is Cardiac Catheterization Performed?

Initially, the patient receives local anesthesia. The catheter is inserted through the femoral or brachial artery and guided to the aorta, then to the heart. Following this, specific steps are taken based on the medical indications that necessitated the procedure.

Medical Indications for Cardiac Catheterization

The indications for cardiac catheterization are categorized into two main types:

Diagnostic Indications

1. Coronary Angiography: Used to diagnose narrowing or blockages in the coronary arteries by injecting a contrast dye and using X-rays.
2. Evaluating Heart Function: Assessing the ability of the heart muscle to pump blood and the efficiency of the ventricles.
3. Congenital Defect Detection: Diagnosing birth-related heart defects, such as atrial or ventricular septal defects, and valve disorders.
4. Measuring Blood Flow and Pressure: Commonly performed after major surgeries.
5. Oxygen Level Measurement: Determining oxygen saturation in heart chambers.
6. Biopsy: Collecting tissue samples from the heart muscle for laboratory analysis.

Therapeutic Indications

1. Treating Coronary Artery Disease: Catheters with small balloons are used to widen narrowed arteries, followed by stent placement to prevent re-blockage.
2. Correcting Congenital Defects: Closing openings in the heart’s septum or replacing damaged valves.
3. Managing Enlarged Heart Muscle: Reducing excessive muscle tissue with targeted injections to restore normal size.
4. Addressing Arrhythmias: Eliminating abnormal heart cells with laser-equipped catheters to normalize the heartbeat.

In many cases, diagnostic and therapeutic catheterization can be combined into a single procedure, depending on the physician’s judgment and the patient’s condition.

Preparations for Cardiac Catheterization

1. Refrain from eating or drinking for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
2. Discontinue anticoagulants (e.g., aspirin or heparin) at least two weeks prior.
3. Remove dentures, jewelry, and necklaces before entering the catheterization room.
4. Empty the bladder immediately before the procedure.

Potential Complications of Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is generally safe when precautions are followed. However, rare complications may include:

• Pain or swelling at the insertion site, sometimes accompanied by minor bleeding.
• Allergic reactions to the contrast dye, treated with corticosteroids and antihistamines.
• Rarely, heart arrhythmias or cardiac arrest, managed with medication or electric shocks.
• Low blood pressure or blood clots, especially in elderly or chronically ill patients.

Conclusion

Cardiac catheterization, whether diagnostic or therapeutic, plays a crucial role in modern cardiology. These procedures provide precise insights and effective interventions for heart conditions. In Turkey, Dr. Al-Akkad’s specialized center offers cutting-edge technologies, experienced medical teams, and comprehensive care, ensuring optimal outcomes for patients seeking advanced cardiac treatment.