Cardiac catheterization

Cardiac catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is the procedure in which tiny tubes (catheters) are introduced through blood vessels into cardiac chambers to assess the pressure and oxygen saturation of blood in the chambers. It is also used to deliver contrast material for angiography (visualization of blood vessels using X-ray beams). The procedure is done in cardiac catheterization laboratory equipped with advanced X-ray equipment.

Drugs and devices for treatment of cardiac conditions can also be introduced by cardiac catheterization. Many modern day treatments like angioplasty (removal of blocks in blood vessels) and balloon valvotomy (enlargement of narrowed valves) and implantation of new valves in place of damaged valves are done by cardiac catheterization.