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Your doctor has recommended that you undergo a cardiac catheterization. But what does that actually mean?
The heart is located in the center of the chest. It's job is to keep blood continually circulating throughout the body.
The blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart are called arteries.
The largest and most important of these is the aorta.
The vessels that bring blood back into the heart are called veins.
Sometimes, these blood vessels can grow narrower or become blocked in such a way that normal blood flow is restricted. In simple terms, a cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic procedure used when your doctor believes that blood is not flowing normally in and or around your heart.
In simple terms, a cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic procedure used when your doctor believes that blood is not flowing normally in and or around your heart.
During a cardiac catheterization, a heart specialist will insert a thin tube into an artery in the arm or leg and gently guide it towards the problem area in the heart.
Once the tube is in place, a special dye is injected and a series of x-rays are taken.
These x-rays allow your doctor to see exactly how blood is flowing in your heart.
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Cardiac Catheterization Angiography
Alternatives
Your doctor understands that all medical care benefits from close collaboration between physician and patient -- so be sure to review, with your doctor, all risks and alternatives and make sure you understand the reasons behind the recommendation for this particular procedure.
Now let's talk in detail about the procedure your doctor has recommended. That particular recommendation was based on a number of factors:
* the state of your health,
* the severity of your condition,
* an assessment of alternative treatments or procedures and finally,
* the risks associated with doing nothing at all.
And remember, the final decision is up to you. No one can force you to undergo a surgical procedure against your will.
Because cardiac catheterization is a diagnostic procedure there are very few alternatives. Most likely, you're feeling some anxiety about this procedure, which is perfectly understandable.
You should realize that it's natural to feel apprehensive about any kind of procedure - especially involving the heart. In some cases, patients will decide not to have a cardiac catheterization simply out of fear.
It's important, however, to understand that cardiac catheterization is a invaluable tool that your doctor relies on in order to better understand the reasons behind the symptoms you're feeling.
Choosing not to have a cardiac catheterization will not directly put your health at risk.
However your symptoms can be warning signs of serious and even life-threatening medical problems and for that you reason you should carefully consider the diagnostic value of your doctor's recommendation to undergo cardiac catheterization.
Now I'd like to introduce you to another important member of the medical team -- the nurse.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor.
MedSelfEd, Inc. disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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