An x-ray imaging test is conducted for determining if there are any restrictions in the flow of blood to the heart. This is the most common test performed by doctors for diagnosing heart conditions. Coronary angiography involves the insertion of a tube or a small catheter tube through the skin into an artery in the hand or the groin. With the help of a special x-ray viewing device, the catheter is guided towards the opening of the coronary arteries that supply blood to the heart. This is followed by the injection of a small volume of solution containing iodine into each artery. The pictures that are produced are called angiograms and they accurately reveal the blockages in the arteries. 

Why Manipal?

With the help of state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, our prolific team of cardiologists at Manipal Hospitals performs angiography while providing the best outcome in patient comfort and safety. The procedure is conducted under local anaesthesia and usually takes around 15-20 minutes. Our highly experienced team of cardiologists and radiologists quickly and accurately diagnose defects and accordingly prescribe the best treatment plans. 

Solutions

On the basis of the severity of the blockage in the artery, our cardiologists prescribe the placement of a stent during angiography. The stent supports the walls of the artery so that it doesn’t narrow again after the procedure. At Manipal Hospitals, our expertly trained cardiologists are assisted by high precision equipment while they perform a stent procedure.

Risks

Angiography is generally a painless procedure but it can cause mild discomfort at the site of the catheter insertion. In some patients, an allergic reaction to the dye might occur. While the procedure generally doesn’t cause any serious complications, it could sometimes result in kidney damage, stroke, or the formation of blood clots. To ensure such complications, all patients are screened and their vitals, including blood pressure, are checked for any allergies or potential reactions before the procedure. Moreover, blood tests and ECG are also conducted before the test to mitigate the risks of complications during/after the procedure.

Success

As complications are rare during an angiography, it is widely accepted as the gold standard procedure to perform to diagnose coronary artery disease. On the basis of the severity of artery blockages, an angiogram can assist cardiologists in choosing among coronary stenting, coronary bypass surgery, atherectomy, or balloon angioplasty. At Manipal Hospitals, our highly qualified team of cardiac technicians, radiologists, and cardiologists assure optimum patient care during each procedure.

Infection Control Protocol

Post an angiogram, the patient will be transferred to a recovery ward to prevent bleeding at the incision site where catheter insertion was done. This is conducted to prevent infections. At Manipal Hospitals, our proficient cardiologists follow a stringent infection control protocol to keep patients under sterile conditions. Moreover, our extensively trained infection control team prioritizes patient safety at all times throughout the patient’s stay at the hospital.