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 catheterization is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure performed by placing a catheter into heart chambers and vessels. This comprehensive guide covers types, indications, and the procedure process of cardiac catheterization in detail.
What is Cardiac Catheterization?#
Cardiac catheterization is the advancement of a thin tube (catheter) to the heart through blood vessels. Pressure measurement, imaging, and treatment procedures can be performed.
Types of Cardiac Catheterization:
- Left heart catheterization
- Right heart catheterization
- Combined catheterization
Cardiac Catheterization Indications#
Diagnostic Purposes#
- Coronary artery disease evaluation
- Valve disease evaluation
- Heart failure evaluation
- Congenital heart disease
Therapeutic Purposes#
- Coronary angioplasty and stent
- Balloon valvuloplasty
- Septal defect closure
- TAVI
Left Heart Catheterization#
Indications#
- Coronary artery disease
- Aortic valve disease
- Mitral valve disease
- Left ventricular function
Measurements#
- Left ventricular pressure
- Aortic pressure
- Coronary angiography
- Ventriculography
Right Heart Catheterization#
Indications#
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Heart failure
- Valve disease
- Shunt evaluation
Measurements#
- Right atrial pressure
- Right ventricular pressure
- Pulmonary artery pressure
- Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure
- Cardiac output
How is Cardiac Catheterization Performed?#
Preparation#
- 6-8 hours fasting
- Kidney function tests
- Blood thinner adjustment
Procedure Steps#
- Local anesthesia: To entry site
- Vascular access: Femoral or radial
- Catheter advancement: Toward heart
- Pressure measurement: In chambers
- Imaging: With contrast
- Treatment: If needed
- Catheter removal: End of procedure
Procedure Duration#
Total time: 30-60 minutes
Cardiac Catheterization Results#
Normal Values#
| Parameter | Normal Value |
|---|---|
| Left ventricle | 100-140/5-12 mmHg |
| Aorta | 100-140/60-90 mmHg |
| Right ventricle | 15-30/0-8 mmHg |
| Pulmonary artery | 15-30/4-12 mmHg |
Complications#
- Bleeding (rare)
- Infection (rare)
- Arrhythmia
- Contrast reaction
- Vessel damage
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is cardiac catheterization painful?
How long does catheterization take?
When will I be discharged after catheterization?
What are the risks of catheterization?
Am I awake during catheterization?
Appointment and Contact#
To schedule an appointment for cardiac catheterization:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content was prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.