This content has been prepared for informational purposes to protect public health, in compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey and medical ethical rules. It does not provide any diagnosis, treatment guarantees, or specific medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for the most accurate information.
Cardiac angiography is the evaluation of heart vessels through X-ray imaging. It is the gold standard method for diagnosing coronary artery disease. This guide comprehensively covers all stages of the cardiac angiography procedure, preparation, and results.
What is Cardiac Angiography?#
Cardiac angiography is the imaging of heart vessels using contrast medium. Stenosis, occlusion, and anomalies in coronary arteries are detected.
Purposes of Cardiac Angiography:
- Diagnosis of coronary artery disease
- Determining the degree of stenosis
- Treatment planning
- Intervention decision
Cardiac Angiography Indications#
Diagnostic Indications#
- Stable angina pectoris
- Acute coronary syndrome
- Positive stress test
- Heart failure evaluation
Interventional Indications#
- Stent planning
- Before bypass surgery
- Before valve surgery
- Structural heart disease
Preparation Before Cardiac Angiography#
Patient Preparation#
- 6-8 hours fasting
- Kidney function tests
- Blood thinner adjustment
- Allergy history inquiry
Contraindications#
- Severe renal failure
- Contrast allergy
- Active infection
- Uncontrolled hypertension
How is Cardiac Angiography Performed?#
Access Routes#
Femoral Approach:
- Entry from groin
- Classical method
- Large catheters can be used
Radial Approach:
- Entry from wrist
- Fewer complications
- Early mobilization
Procedure Steps#
- Local anesthesia: To entry site
- Arterial puncture: Femoral or radial
- Guidewire advancement: To aorta
- Catheter placement: To coronary ostia
- Contrast injection: For imaging
- Image recording: From different angles
- Catheter removal: End of procedure
- Hemostasis: Bleeding control
Procedure Duration#
Total time: 15-30 minutes
Cardiac Angiography Results#
Normal Findings#
- Smooth coronary arteries
- No stenosis
- Normal flow
Pathological Findings#
- Coronary stenosis
- Complete occlusion
- Aneurysm
- Anomaly
Stenosis Grading#
| Grade | Stenosis Rate |
|---|---|
| Mild | <50% |
| Moderate | 50-70% |
| Severe | 70-90% |
| Critical | >90% |
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is cardiac angiography painful?
How long is hospital stay required after angiography?
What are the risks of angiography?
When can I return to normal activity after angiography?
Am I awake during angiography?
Appointment and Contact#
To schedule an appointment for cardiac angiography:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content was prepared by interventional cardiologist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.