Cardiac Catheterisation

A cardiac catheterisation is a medical test to ascertain whether the patient has any problems with the blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygen and find out how the heart valves and pumping chambers are working. 

To be offered this procedure the consultant may have worries that the patient has blocked or narrowed arteries or a weak heart muscle. 

Much the same as an Angiolasty the short, soft plastic tube is inserted into the femoral artery in your groin area at which point a catheter in inserted through the tube and along the artery to your heart. Your consultant will then inject dye into the catheter so x-rays can be taken to ascertain the problem with the artery and to what extent. 

Patients will normally be allowed home the same day but are advised not to do any strenuous exercise for a week following. 

This procedure will normally be covered by the medical insurance policy but patients are advised to check with the provider prior to any treatment.

If you are paying for your own treatment all costs will be discussed and explained prior to any treatment taking place. This will be confirmed in writing along with any surgeon fees, anaesthetist fees and hospital charges prior to admission.