If you’re experiencing heart-related health problems, like palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath, cardiac catheterization can identify the underlying cause. At Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group, the team of expert physicians performs both left (LHC) and right-sided (RLHC) cardiac catheterization on an outpatient basis. To make an appointment at the practice in the Greater Heights or Downtown neighborhoods of Houston, Texas, Pearland, Texas, and the location in Kingwood, Texas, call the nearest office today or schedule online.
Cardiac catheterization is an outpatient procedure that assesses the health and function of your heart.
During catheterization, your Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group provider runs a thin, narrow tube, called a catheter, through a blood vessel in your arm or leg. Your provider then guides the catheter to your heart and releases a contrast dye.
After releasing the dye, your provider takes a series of X-rays. Then, they use the images to view your heart valves, arteries, and chambers.
Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group offers several types of cardiac catheterization, including:
Left-side catheterization involves your provider running the catheter through an artery.
Right-side catheterization involves your provider running the catheter through a vein.
If your provider discovers atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in your blood vessels) during cardiac catheterization, they might recommend a follow-up procedure known as staged PCI. Staged PCI involves your provider inserting a stent into the affected blood vessel, promoting healthy blood flow.
Cardiac catheterization can also be used to determine the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD).
Cardiac catheterization is an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t have to stay the night in the hospital.
Before getting started, your provider administers a local anesthetic to numb the catheterization site. Once you’re comfortable, they insert the catheter into the vein, guide it to your heart, and take a series of X-rays.
Following catheterization, you’re moved to a recovery room where the team monitors you for several hours.
If you experience any discomfort during or after the procedure, let your provider know. They’ll work with you to pinpoint the underlying cause and help you feel better.
To see if you’re a candidate for cardiac catheterization, make an appointment at Texas Heart and Vein Multispecialty Group by calling the nearest office today or scheduling online.
