Pediatric Cardiology
Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization
Your heart requires a steady supply of oxygen rich blood to function. When the coronary arteries the vessels responsible for this supply become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), it can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or a heart attack.
We specialize in Coronary Angiography (diagnosis) and Angioplasty (treatment), the gold-standard procedures for identifying and fixing heart blockages to restore your quality of life.
What is Coronary Angiography?
Coronary Angiography (also known as a cardiac catheterization) is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the inside of your coronary arteries. It is the most accurate method to detect the exact location and severity of blockages.
How it works: A specialized dye (contrast material) is injected into the arteries through a thin tube (catheter). X-ray imaging is then used to track the dye as it flows through your heart. If the dye stops or narrows at a certain point, it indicates a blockage.
What is Angioplasty (PCI)?
If the angiography reveals significant blockages, Angioplasty—medically known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI)—is often performed immediately following the diagnosis. This is a non-surgical procedure used to open the blocked arteries.
The Stenting Process:
Balloon Inflation
A tiny balloon at the tip of the catheter is inflated at the site of the blockage to push the plaque against the artery wall.
Stent Placement
A Stent (a small wire mesh tube) is permanently placed in the artery to keep it open.
Drug-Eluting Stents
Most modern stents are coated with medication that releases slowly to prevent the artery from narrowing again.
Signs You May Need an Angiography
Your cardiologist may recommend this procedure if you are experiencing symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), including:
- Angina: Persistent chest pain or discomfort (heaviness, squeezing).
- Unexplained Pain: Pain in the jaw, neck, arm, or back that is triggered by exertion.
- Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing during physical activity.
- Abnormal Stress Test: Irregular results from an ECG or treadmill test.
- Emergency: During or immediately after a heart attack (Myocardial Infarction).
The Procedure: What to Expect
We understand that heart procedures can be anxiety-inducing. Here is a step-by-step guide to put your mind at ease.
1. Before the Procedure
- You will undergo routine blood tests and an ECG.
- You will likely be asked to fast (no food or water) for 6–8 hours prior.
- Inform your doctor about any allergies (especially to iodine or shellfish) and current medications (especially blood thinners).
2. During the Procedure
- Anesthesia: You will remain awake but sedated. Local anesthesia is applied to the insertion site (usually the wrist/radial artery or the groin/femoral artery).
- Insertion: A thin catheter is threaded through the blood vessel up to the heart. This is generally painless.
- Diagnosis & Treatment: If a blockage is found, the doctor may proceed directly to Angioplasty (stenting) to fix the issue.
- Duration: Diagnostic angiography takes about 30 minutes, while angioplasty may take 60–90 minutes.
3. After the Procedure
- You will be moved to a recovery room for observation.
- If the procedure was done through the wrist (radial access), you can often sit up and walk sooner.
- Most angioplasty patients are discharged within 24 to 48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Angiography painful?
The procedure is generally not painful. You will feel a prick for the local anesthesia. You may feel a brief warm flushing sensation when the dye is injected, but this passes quickly.
How long does a heart stent last?
Stents are permanent. Once placed, they become part of the artery wall. However, it is vital to take prescribed blood thinners and manage cholesterol to prevent new blockages from forming elsewhere.
Can I drive myself home after the procedure?
No. The sedatives may affect your reaction time. Please arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home.
How soon can I return to work?
For a simple angiography, many patients return to work in 2–3 days. For angioplasty, most patients return to light duty within a week, though manual labor may require more time off.
Take Control of Your Heart Health Today
Do not ignore chest pain or shortness of breath. Early detection and treatment are key to a healthy heart. Our team of experienced interventional cardiologists is here to provide world-class care with compassion.
