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    Cardiac Catheterization

    Cardiac Catheterization



    Why It Is Done

    Cardiac catheterization and coronary artery disease

    Cardiac catheterization is done to:

    • Check blood flow and blood pressure in the chambers of the heart.
    • Check blood flow in the coronary arteries and, if you have Reference coronary artery disease Opens New Window (CAD), determine whether surgery or another type of procedure, such as angioplasty with stenting, is needed to open the blocked blood vessels.

    Other reasons for having a cardiac catheterization

    Cardiac catheterization is also done to:

    • Check the pumping action of the heart.
    • Find out if a congenital heart defect is present and how severe it is. Cardiac catheterization sometimes can also be used to help correct the defect.
    • Check blood flow through the heart after surgery.
    • Find out how well the heart valves work.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference July 20, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
    Reference George Philippides, MD - Cardiology


    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.


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