Coronary arteriography is the definitive diagnostic test for coronary artery disease. But you may need other tests before this invasive test is ordered. . neck, or arm to the coronary arteries around the heart. The doctor uses this catheter to put a contrast dye into the blood of the coronary arteries. The dye shows up on X-rays and highlights the coronary arteries.

A coronary catheterization is a minimally invasive procedure to access the coronary circulation and blood filled chambers of the heart using a catheter.

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), commonly known as coronary angioplasty or simply angioplasty, is a non-surgical procedure used to treat the stenotic (narrowed) . The guiding catheter also allows for radio-opaque dyes (usually iodine-based) to be injected into the coronary artery, so that the disease state and location can be readily assessed using real time X-ray visualization.

What is coronary computed tomography angiogram or CTA? A coronary computed tomography angiogram (CTA) uses advanced CT technology, along with intravenous (IV) contrast material (dye), to obtain high-resolution, . than a cardiac catheterization, with potentially less risk and discomfort as well as decreased recovery time. View photos of CT angiography; Cardiac Catheterization . Cleveland Clinic uses multiple state-of-the-art multi-row detector CT scanners, .

Coronary angiography is often done along with cardiac catheterization. This is a procedure which measures pressures in the heart chambers. Before the test starts, you will be given a mild sedative to help you relax. . Cardiac catheterization carries a slightly increased risk when compared with other heart tests. However, the test is very safe when performed by an experienced team.

Coronary angiography (an-jee-OG-rah-fee) is a test that uses dye and special x rays to show the insides of your coronary arteries. . Cardiac catheterization rarely causes serious complications. Rate This Content: NEXT >> Updated: March 2, 2012. Twitter; Facebook; YouTube; Google+; SITE INDEX; ACCESSIBILITY; PRIVACY STATEMENT; FOIA; OIG; CONTACT US; National Institutes of Health;

The risks depend on the type of arteriogram performed. Talk to your doctor about the risks involved before you have the test. Risks may include: Allergic reaction to the dye used; Bleeding . Images. Cardiac arteriogram; References. Kern M. Catheterization and angiography. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 57. White CJ. Atherosclerotic peripheral arterial disease. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds .

Our specialists offer advanced diagnosis and individualized treatment options for coronary artery disease, including radial artery catheterization.

Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a type of surgery that improves blood flow to the heart. Surgeons use CABG to treat people who have severe coronary heart disease (CHD).