If the procedure is done in a hospital, you will usually be admitted a day
before the procedure. If you are allergic to shellfish or have ever had a reaction
to x-ray dye, be sure to tell your doctor. The area where the catheter is inserted,
usually the arm or the groin area, is shaved. You are not allowed to have anything
to eat or drink 6 to 12 hours before the procedure
How is it done:
Most people are a little nervous to learn that they will be awake during the
procedure to follow the doctor's instructions. However, you should experience
little discomfort. You are given a sedative before the procedure to help you
relax. You will be monitored throughout the procedure.
Some procedure rooms may use tables that move from side to side while the x-rays
are taken. In other rooms the table remains in one position while the camera
moves around you. In either case, you are securely strapped to the table.
The area where the catheter is inserted is shaved and disinfected, and your
arm or leg is strapped down. Sterile towels are placed over you to prevent infection.
You usually cannot see what is occurring. After a local numbing medicine is
injected, a small incision is made for the insertion of the catheter.
As the catheter is inserted, you will feel a slight pressure. At times during
the procedure, the doctor may ask you to hold your breath, cough, and breathe
deeply. You may also be asked to breathe oxygen. Medications may also be given
during cardiac catheterization. Nitroglycerin is sometimes used to dilate the
coronary arteries. If you heart's electrical conduction system is tested, you
may be given drugs to speed up or slow down your beat.
Cardiac catheterization takes between 1 and 4 hours, depending on how many
tests are performed.
When the x-ray dye is injected, you may experience a flushing sensation and
nausea, but this will disappear quickly.
