Left heart ventricular angiography
Left Heart Ventricular Angiography
Left heart ventricular angiography is a type of medical imaging procedure that uses X-ray and dye to cause an image of the left ventricle of the heart to appear on a computerized monitor. It is used to diagnose patients with suspected heart or circulation problems. Left heart ventricular angiography is usually done in a hospital or medical centre, and the procedure usually takes about an hour.
Preparation:
Prior to the procedure, the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate should be taken to ensure that they are within normal limits. They may also be asked to fast for several hours so that the doctor can clearly see the results on the imaging.
Procedure:
The patient is connected to an ECG machine for monitoring during the procedure. They may be given a sedative to reduce anxiety, and then IV access is established with a catheter. A contrast dye is injected and a series of X-ray images are taken of the left ventricle at different angles. Once the procedure is completed, the patient is monitored for a period of time to ensure that the contrast dye has no adverse effects.
Types:
- Trans-thoracic left heart ventricular angiography.
- Trans-esophageal left heart ventricular angiography.
- Intravascular ultrasound.
Risks:
As with any medical procedure, left heart ventricular angiography does come with risks and potential side effects. These include reaction to contrast dye, injuries to tissues, infection, and stroke. Most of the risks associated with this procedure are very low and can usually be managed with ease.
Why Should You Have Left Heart Ventricular Angiography?
Left heart ventricular angiography is used to diagnose and assess the following conditions: coronary artery disease, heart valve wear and tear, heart wall thickening, congenital heart defects, and heart muscle weakness. It can also be used to assess the function of valves and other heart structures.
When Should You Have Left Heart Ventricular Angiography?
Left heart ventricular angiography should be done when a patient presents with symptoms of a heart or circulation problem. These could include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, and swelling in the legs. The results of left heart ventricular angiography can help the doctor determine the underlying cause of the symptoms and provide an appropriate treatment plan.