Name of the Procedure:

Catheter Placement in Coronary Artery(s) for Coronary Angiography, Including Intraprocedural Injection(s) for Coronary Angiography, Imaging Supervision and Interpretation; with Catheter Placement(s) in Bypass Graft(s) (Internal Mammary, Free Arterial, Venous)

Summary

In this procedure, a catheter is inserted into the coronary arteries to visualize blood flow and check for blockages using contrast dye and X-ray imaging. Additionally, it involves placing catheters into any existing bypass grafts to ensure they are functioning properly.

Purpose

To diagnose and assess the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) and evaluate the condition of coronary artery bypass grafts. The goal is to determine the presence of blockages or abnormalities that may require further treatment, such as angioplasty or surgery.

Indications

• Chest pain or angina
• Unstable angina
• Abnormal stress test results
• Suspected coronary artery disease
• Assessment of previous coronary artery bypass grafts
• Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack)

Preparation

• The patient may be instructed to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, particularly if the patient is on blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure tests might include blood work, ECG, and a review of medical history.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on an X-ray table and connected to monitoring equipment.
2. Local anesthesia is applied to the insertion site, typically in the groin or wrist.
3. A catheter is inserted through the skin into the artery and guided to the coronary arteries using fluoroscopy (a type of X-ray).
4. Contrast dye is injected through the catheter to visualize the coronary arteries and bypass grafts.
5. Images are taken to evaluate the blood flow and detect any blockages.
6. The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to stop bleeding.

Duration

The procedure generally takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour, but can vary depending on complexity.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's cardiac catheterization lab (cath lab).

Personnel

• Interventional cardiologist
• Cardiac nurses
• Radiologic technologists
• An anesthesiologist or sedation nurse, if needed

Risks and Complications

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site
• Allergic reaction to contrast dye
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Infection
• Blood vessel damage
• Myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke (rare)

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of coronary artery disease
• Evaluation of coronary artery bypass grafts
• Immediate insights into blood flow and heart function
• Identification of issues requiring further treatment

Recovery

• Patients are typically monitored for several hours post-procedure.
• Instructions include keeping the insertion site clean and dry.
• Avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
• Follow-up appointments are usually scheduled to discuss results and any further treatment.

Alternatives

• Non-invasive imaging tests (e.g., CT angiography, stress tests)
• Medical management with medications for coronary artery disease
• Lifestyle changes and risk factor modification

Patient Experience

Patients may feel minor discomfort or pressure during catheter insertion and dye injection but otherwise should remain comfortable. Post-procedure, patients might experience minor soreness at the insertion site. Pain management options are available to ensure comfort.