This is a test that involves the insertion of a small catheter into the wrist (radial artery) or leg (femoral artery). The catheter is then manoeuvred to the aorta (main blood vessel exiting the heart) under fluoroscopy (low-dose x-ray), and contrast dye is injected to directly image the heart arteries.
Indications for the test
Suspected significant coronary artery disease
Investigate for heart artery narrowings in the setting of an abnormal stress test
Investigate for heart artery narrowings before open heart surgery (i.e. valve replacement)
What to expect
You will be guided through the procedure on the day, including the risks (<1:1000 chance of a serious complication in experienced hands)
You will have a cannula inserted into your arm so that sedation can be given (technically you are still conscious for the procedure, but very drowsy).
After assessing the best access site for the angiogram catheter, your doctor will numb the relevant area with local anaesthetic before inserting the device.
The procedure will take about 10-15 minutes once everything is set-up. Once finished a small band will be placed on the wrist, or if access was via the leg, your Doctor may push on this for about 10 minutes depending if your leg was suitable for a small closure plug.
You will be moved to a monitored recovery bay until the sedation has worn off.
Cardiology Tasmania has 5 specialist centres located in Derwent Park, Huonville, Oatland, Swansea and Rokeby. As well as our fixed locations, our cardiology specialists and consultants travel to regional and remote areas to ensure all patients have access to cardiology services regardless of where they live.
Call Us: 0439 195 660
Derwent Park
Northcare Health Centre, 254 Main Road, Derwent Park, TAS
62728869
Huonville
Huon Valley Health Centre, 85 Main Road, Huonville, TAS
62642800
Oatlands
Midlands Multipurpose Health, 13 Church Street, Oatlands, TAS
61350540
Swansea
Swansea General Practice: 37 Wellington Street, Swansea, TAS
62578205
Rokeby
Knopwood Medical Centre: 46 South Arm Road, Rokeby, TAS