Cardiac Catheterization at OLBH

The OLBH Vascular team at work with interventional cardiologist Michele Friday, M.D.

There are a number of examinations available to diagnose possible heart disease. OLBH’s cardiologists determine the best methods based on the patient’s risk factors, history of heart problems, and current symptoms.

Cardiac catheterization, also known as a heart cath or coronary angiography, allows a cardiologist to assess the function of the heart in several ways. It is a non-surgical, diagnostic procedure that involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube, called a catheter, through an artery (usually in the thigh) into the heart. At OLBH, physicians use highly advanced technology to obtain real-time, digital images of the heart’s pumping action, the function of the heart valves, and the blood flow in the coronary arteries.

As compared to other diagnostic tests, cardiac catheterization provides more accurate and comprehensive information. This is especially important when visualization of the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, is required. The test provides an exact picture of the arteries of the heart and allows OLBH’s vascular team to assess the severity of blockages in the patient’s coronary arteries.

During the procedure, the pressures inside the heart can be measured, blood flow directions and quantities gauged, and pictures of the heart muscle function are obtained. Pressure readings taken inside the heart allow for evaluation of the heart’s pumping function and assessment of the severity of potential valve defects. When a leaky valve or a hole in the heart is present, the dye used during cardiac catheterization shows abnormal blood flow because the dye goes in the ‘wrong’ direction.

A complete cardiac catheterization study generally lasts about one hour. A precise diagnosis often is available immediately. In other cases, further review and consultations with other OLBH physician specialists may be required.

For more information about how advanced cardiac procedures available at OLBH may benefit you, speak to your physician. For a physician referral or further information about OLBH services, please call the CareLine at (606) 833-CARE (2273).