Categories
- Cardiology 84
- Dermatology 45
- Endocrinology 33
- ENT 16
- Fertility 190
- Gastroenterology 78
- General-Medicine 81
- Gynecology 80
- Hematology 19
- Infectious-Diseases 33
- Neurology 52
- Oncology 34
- Ophthalmology 23
- Orthopedics 69
- Pediatrics 31
- Procedure 23
- Public-Health 144
- Pulmonology 59
- Radiology 8
- Urology 68
- Wellness 161
- Woman-and-child 77
![What Is A Coronary Angiogram (CAG)? What Is A Coronary Angiogram (CAG)?](https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/images/articles/what-is-a-coronary-angiogram.webp)
What is a Coronary Angiogram (CAG)?
A procedure performed on the vessels in the heart is known as a Coronary Angiogram (CAG) or Angiography. ‘Angio’ in Greek refers to blood vessels, and ‘Gram’ in Angiogram refers to a measure in Latin. So, an Angiogram refers to the analysis or recording of the condition of blood vessels.
Angiography or Coronary Angiogram (CAG) is a process where X-rays are used to study the condition of blood vessels in the:
- Arms
- Chest
- Head
Any obstruction of the blood vessels is identified, recorded, and reported to the consulting doctor. Pregnant women and people with a history of:
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionAre not considered for Angiograms.
Angiograms are performed by placing a catheter in an artery or vein to be reviewed. An iodine dye is injected into the artery, which allows an X-ray to view the exact site of any blockage or tear in an artery. The results from angiograms can be viewed on traditional X-ray films, and with new technology, they can also be viewed as digital pictures.
What is a Coronary Artery Disease?
The heart is a powerful muscular organ requiring an adequate supply of oxygen to function efficiently. Oxygen-rich blood is carried to the heart through three arteries that branch into a network of smaller vessels.
Coronary Artery Disease affects the blood vessels (arteries) on the surface of the heart. These arteries bring blood (rich in oxygen and nutrients) to the heart.
Ageing and other complex factors cause these ordinarily soft and compliant blood vessels to harden. In addition, fat, cholesterol, and minerals from the blood are deposited on the inner surface of the coronary arteries.
When this material builds up, it forms a plaque that may restrict the blood flow through the coronary artery. Such plaque may also change the surface of the artery from smooth to rough, and these rough surfaces may stimulate the formation of a blood clot, which may slowly build up and narrow the artery even more. A blood clot can also build up quickly and abruptly close off the artery.
Why is the CAG Procedure Performed?
A Coronary Angiogram (CAG) shows where the arteries are narrowed or blocked. It is performed to detect obstruction in the coronary arteries in patients with angina or chest pain. It may also be performed as the next course of treatment after a heart attack. Sometimes, patients with valve disease or holes in the heart undergoing heart surgery may be advised on Coronary Angiography.
How is an Angiogram Performed?
A thin tube called a 'sheath' is inserted into an artery in your arm or leg. Catheters are then moved through this tube to the part of the aorta near the heart. A special liquid called contrast medium or dye is then injected into the coronary arteries through the catheter.
Using X-rays, the doctor can see how the arteries and heart chambers look. X-ray pictures are taken and recorded as a film (Cine Angiogram).
The doctor may need to inject contrast medium a few times to see the arteries from different angles.
During the procedure, you'll be lying down securely. The pressure in your heart chambers and blood vessels can be measured by connecting the catheter to a gauge.
Blood samples may be taken from the chambers. Your heart function and blood pressure will be monitored throughout.
What About the Result?
A normal result means adequate blood supply to the heart. An abnormal result is when Coronary Angiography shows the following:
- Blockage of coronary arteries
- Places of blockage
- The degree of each blockage
These results can help your doctor decide on the right treatment for your heart disease. The information in this handout is not intended as a substitute for medical advice but is to be used as an aid in understanding ailment. Always consult your doctor about your medical condition.
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
In a coronary angiogram, a small tube is inserted into an arm or leg artery. Doctors inject a special liquid to see your heart and arteries on X-rays, looking for any problems like blockages. Throughout, they monitor your heart and blood pressure closely.
A coronary angiogram might feel a bit uncomfortable, like a pinch when
the needle is inserted and pressure when the tube is inserted. But they
numb the area so it doesn't hurt during the procedure. Afterwards, you
might feel a little sore where the needle was inserted, but it usually
goes away fast.
A coronary angiogram might feel a bit uncomfortable, like a pinch when the needle is inserted and pressure when the tube is inserted. But they numb the area so it doesn't hurt during the procedure. Afterwards, you might feel a little sore where the needle was inserted, but it usually goes away fast.
After the procedure, stay in bed or sit in a comfy chair until the next
morning. Only get up to use the bathroom, then go back to resting. Avoid
bending or squatting for 2 days, and don't lift, push, or pull anything
heavy (over 10 pounds) for the first 3 days.
After the procedure, stay in bed or sit in a comfy chair until the next morning. Only get up to use the bathroom, then go back to resting. Avoid bending or squatting for 2 days, and don't lift, push, or pull anything heavy (over 10 pounds) for the first 3 days.
![Book Free Appointment](https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/images/form_person.webp)
Categories
- Cardiology 84
- Dermatology 45
- Endocrinology 33
- ENT 16
- Fertility 190
- Gastroenterology 78
- General-Medicine 81
- General 6
- Gynecology 80
- Hematology 19
- Infectious-Diseases 33
- Neurology 52
- Oncology 34
- Ophthalmology 23
- Orthopedics 69
- Pediatrics 31
- Procedure 23
- Public-Health 144
- Pulmonology 59
- Radiology 8
- Urology 68
- Wellness 161
- Woman-and-child 77