Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel—usually through the wrist (radial artery) or groin (femoral artery)—and guided to the heart. Through this catheter, cardiologists can:

• Examine blood flow and pressure within the heart chambers
• Identify blockages or narrowing in coronary arteries
• Assess heart valve function
• Measure oxygen levels and heart performance

It plays a crucial role in diagnosing coronary artery disease, congenital heart defects, valve disorders, and heart muscle problems.

Why is Cardiac Catheterization Performed?

Dr. Nishant Tyagi may recommend cardiac catheterization if you have:

• Chest pain (angina)
• Shortness of breath
• Abnormal stress test or ECG results
• Suspected or known coronary artery disease
• Heart valve disease
• Congenital heart defects
• Heart failure requiring detailed evaluation

The procedure helps determine the exact cause of symptoms and guides further treatment such as angioplasty, stenting, or surgery.

Types of Cardiac Catheterization

1. Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization

Used to evaluate heart structure and blood flow. It includes tests such as:

• Coronary Angiography – to detect blocked arteries
• Left & Right Heart Catheterization – to measure pressures and oxygen levels

2. Interventional Cardiac Catheterization

Performed to treat heart conditions during the same procedure, including:

• Coronary angioplasty
• Stent placement
• Balloon valvuloplasty
• Closure of certain congenital defects

How the Procedure is Done

• Preparation: You may be asked to fast for a few hours. Blood tests and imaging are done beforehand.
• Local Anesthesia: The insertion site (wrist or groin) is numbed.
• Catheter Insertion: A catheter is guided to the heart under X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance.
• Imaging & Measurements: Contrast dye is injected to visualize arteries and heart chambers.
• Completion: The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding.

Is Cardiac Catheterization Safe?

Cardiac catheterization is a highly safe and routinely performed procedure. When done by an experienced cardiologist like Dr. Nishant Tyagi, the risk of complications is minimal. Rare risks may include:

• Minor bleeding or bruising at the insertion site
• Allergic reaction to contrast dye
• Temporary irregular heartbeat

All procedures are performed in a fully equipped cath lab with continuous monitoring.

Benefits of Cardiac Catheterization

• Accurate and real-time diagnosis
• Minimally invasive with quick recovery
• Helps avoid unnecessary surgery
• Allows immediate treatment if required
• Guides long-term heart disease management

Recovery After Cardiac Catheterization

• Most patients can go home the same day or within 24 hours
• Mild soreness or bruising at the insertion site is common
• Normal activities can usually be resumed within 1–2 days
• Dr. Tyagi provides detailed post-procedure care and medication guidance

Why Choose Dr. Nishant Tyagi for Cardiac Catheterization?

• Experienced Cardiologist at Medanta Hospital, Noida
• Expertise in advanced cardiac diagnostics and interventions
• Patient-centric and ethical approach
• Use of latest cath lab technology
• Comprehensive pre- and post-procedure care

If you are experiencing heart-related symptoms or have been advised further cardiac evaluation, consult Dr. Nishant Tyagi for expert guidance. Early diagnosis through cardiac catheterization can prevent serious heart complications and save lives.