Cardiology · Coronary Interventions
Coronary Angiography
The definitive map of your heart's arteries
Medically reviewed by Dr Kunal Ajay Patankar, DrNB (Cardiology)
What it is
Coronary angiography is the gold-standard test to visualise the arteries that supply blood to your heart muscle. A thin tube (catheter) is guided to the heart — usually through the wrist — and a contrast dye is injected while X-ray images are taken.
The result is a precise, real-time map showing exactly where and how severely the arteries are narrowed, which guides every treatment decision that follows.
Who needs it
- Chest pain (angina) on exertion or at rest
- Abnormal stress test, ECG or echocardiography findings
- After a heart attack, to plan treatment
- Before valve procedures or major surgery, when advised
- Unexplained breathlessness or reduced heart function
How it happens, step by step
1
Preparation
You'll be awake but relaxed. The wrist (radial artery) is numbed with local anaesthetic — general anaesthesia is not needed.
2
Catheter placement
A soft catheter, thinner than a pen refill, travels through the artery to the openings of the heart's arteries. You typically feel nothing as it moves.
3
Imaging
Contrast dye is injected and X-ray movies capture blood flow from several angles. You may feel a brief warm flush.
4
Review & plan
The films are reviewed immediately. If a significant blockage is found, angioplasty can often be performed in the same sitting after discussion with you and your family.
Recovery, honestly
- Most patients walk within a couple of hours when done via the wrist
- Usually a day-care procedure — home the same evening or next morning
- A small wrist band applies pressure for a few hours; avoid heavy lifting with that arm for 2–3 days
- Normal diet and most medications resume immediately
Common questions
Is angiography painful?
No. Apart from the initial local anaesthetic prick at the wrist, the procedure itself is painless. Most patients chat with the team during it.
How long does it take?
The imaging itself takes about 15–30 minutes. Expect a few hours in hospital including preparation and observation.
Is the radiation dangerous?
The dose is kept as low as possible and is comparable to other routine medical imaging. The diagnostic value far outweighs the small exposure.
What if a blockage is found?
Depending on severity and your preference, we may treat it immediately with angioplasty, plan a staged procedure, refer for bypass surgery, or optimise medications.
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Wondering if Coronary Angiography is right for you?
Every heart is different. Bring your reports and questions — we'll map your options together.