Left heart catheterization
Left Heart Catheterization
Left heart catheterization is a cardiac procedure that is used to diagnose and treat certain cardiac conditions. This procedure involves inserting a long, thin tube called a catheter into a vein in the arm or upper thigh and guiding it to the heart. It is used to diagnose and treat coronary artery heart diseases, abnormal heart valve function, and high blood pressure of the lungs.
Preparation for Left Heart Catheterization
Prior to performing a left heart catheter, the patient is required to fast for a few hours before the procedure. Some medications might need to be stopped 48 hours prior to the procedure. Additionally, patients might need to take antibiotics before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection. The patient’s blood pressure needs to be checked before the procedure starts and the procedure itself requires the patient to lay on the procedure table for the entire duration.
Left Heart Catheterization Procedure
During the procedure, the patient is sedated and monitored closely for any discomfort. The catheter is then inserted in the arm or upper thigh and guided to the heart. Once the catheter is in place, it is filled with contrast dye. After the dye is injected, a series of X-ray images are taken to track the flow of the dye. During the procedure, the doctor may perform additional tests such as angiography or a heart biopsy.
Types of Left Heart Catheterization
- Electrocardiography (ECG) Catheterization: ECG catheterization is used to measure electrocardiogram wave patterns of the heart.
- Pacing Catheterization: Pacing catheterization is a type of left heart catheterization used to diagnose and treat abnormal or irregular heart rhythms.
- Pulmonary Artery Catheterization: Pulmonary artery catheterization is used to measure pressure and oxygen content of blood in the pulmonary arteries.
- Valve Replacement Catheterization: Valve replacement catheterization is used to diagnose and treat damaged or narrowed heart valves.
Risks of Left Heart Catheterization
The risks associated with left heart catheterization include bleeding, infection, air embolism, damage to arteries or veins, and arrhythmia that occurs during the procedure. It is also possible for the patient to experience chest pain or shortness of breath due to excess air in the heart. The procedure is considered a safe one, and the risk is minimal when the procedure is performed by an experienced doctor.
Why Left Heart Catheterization is Necessary?
Left heart catheterization is used to diagnose and treat various cardiac conditions. It is used to confirm or rule out if there is a blockage in the coronary arteries, to evaluate cardiac valves, to diagnose heart rhythm abnormalities, and to look for signs of inflammation or infection in the heart. The procedure can also be used to measure the oxygen content and pressure of the blood in the pulmonary arteries.
When Left Heart Catheterization is Performed?
Left heart catheterization is usually performed when a patient is experiencing symptoms that suggest a cardiac condition such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or abnormal heart rhythms. It is used to diagnose and treat many conditions such as coronary heart disease, abnormal heart valves, and high blood pressure of the lungs.