Coronary Angiography
A coronary angiography (also known as a coronary angiogram or cardiac catheterisation) is a specialist test that allows your cardiologist to examine the blood vessels supplying your heart, known as the coronary arteries. It helps identify whether these arteries are narrowed or blocked, which can restrict blood flow to the heart muscle and lead to symptoms such as chest pain (angina), breathlessness, or in some cases, a heart attack.
Why is it performed?
Your cardiologist may recommend this test to investigate symptoms or assess known heart disease. Common reasons include:
Experiencing symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease, such as chest discomfort or breathlessness.
Having abnormal results on previous heart tests such as an ECG, stress test, or cardiac CT scan.
Requiring more detailed information before procedures like angioplasty, stent insertion, or heart surgery.
Having unexplained chest pain, heart failure, or other cardiac conditions that could be linked to reduced blood flow
Risk And Complications
Coronary angiography is a common and generally very safe procedure. Serious complications are rare, but as with any medical test, some minor risks exist, such as:
Bruising or bleeding where the catheter was inserted.
Temporary irregular heartbeat.
Allergic reaction to the dye.
In rare cases, artery damage, heart attack, stroke, or kidney problems.
Your cardiologist will explain these risks carefully and answer any questions before your procedure.
What does the test involve?
Coronary angiography is carried out in a specialist cardiac catheterisation laboratory, often called a cath lab. You will remain awake throughout the procedure, but a local anaesthetic will be used to numb the area — usually in your wrist (radial artery) or, in some cases, your groin (femoral artery).
A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is carefully guided through the artery to the heart using live X-ray guidance. Once the catheter is in position, contrast dye is gently injected, and X-ray images are taken as the dye travels through the coronary arteries. This helps pinpoint any areas of narrowing or blockage.
The procedure typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, and you will be closely monitored throughout. Most patients are able to go home the same day.
- Preparation & Positioning
You’ll be taken to a specialist cardiac catheterisation laboratory (cath lab). A local anaesthetic will be applied to numb the area — usually in your wrist or sometimes your groin — so you’ll remain comfortable and awake throughout.
- During the Scan:
A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is gently guided through your artery to the heart using X-ray guidance. A contrast dye is then injected, allowing your cardiologist to see detailed images of your coronary arteries and identify any areas of narrowing or blockage.
- Safety & Comfort:
You’ll be closely monitored by the medical team at all times to ensure your safety and comfort, and most people can go home the same day.
After the test
After your angiogram, you’ll need to rest briefly to allow the puncture site to heal.
If the wrist was used, a small compression band will be applied to prevent bleeding.
If the groin was used, you may need to lie flat for a short while.
You’ll be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast dye from your system. It’s best to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours (or for up to 7 days if the groin was used). Your cardiology team will provide personalised aftercare advice before you leave.
Results and Next Steps
Your cardiologist will review the images and usually discuss your results with you on the same day.
If a narrowing or blockage is detected, your doctor may recommend further treatment such as angioplasty or stent placement.
In some cases, these can be performed immediately during the same procedure; in others, your cardiologist may arrange a follow-up appointment to discuss the best treatment plan for you.