WHAT IS ANGIOGRAPHY AND HOW IS IT PERFORMED?
In the above-mentioned cases, the procedure performed to visualize the heart vessels and detect blockages is called angiography. It is called Coronary Angiography - Cardiac Catheterization - Angio in Latin.
WHY IS IT DONE?
1. To diagnose disease of the blood vessels supplying the heart, heart valve disease or disease of the main artery of the heart (aorta),
2. To assess heart muscle function,
3. Determine advanced treatment methods,
In the coronary angiography procedure, after a thin, soft plastic sheath is placed in the artery in the groin or arm with the help of an x-ray device, a long, plastic and flexible thin tube (catheter) is used to access the arteries feeding the heart. Angiography dye (contrast dye) is injected into the vein and moving image videos are recorded on the computer. Other procedures
Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS); It allows more detailed images to be obtained with ultrasound in the coronary artery,
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT); It provides detailed information about the inner wall of the vessel with a special light source,
Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) provides information about the severity of the narrowing visualized by measuring the characteristics of the blood flow.
IS ANGIOGRAPHY A SURGICAL PROCEDURE?
No, it is not. Since it is not performed by opening the chest and no wound is formed, it is not considered a surgical procedure. The procedure time is much shorter than surgery.
WILL I BE AWAKE DURING ANGIOGRAPHY?
Yes. If you are anxious, you may be given a mild sedative, but you will be conscious during the whole procedure. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted.
WHERE IS ANGIOGRAPHY PERFORMED?
It is performed in the Angiography Unit of our hospital.
WHO PERFORMS THE ANGIOGRAPHY PROCEDURE?
It is performed by the cardiovascular team, which consists of interventional cardiologists, nurses and technicians.
WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE ANGIOPLASTY PROCEDURE, HOW SHOULD I PLAN MY DAY?
The angio procedure normally takes 10 minutes, but with preparation and rest time, it can take 3 to 6 hours from the time of your appointment. If it is done on the wrist, it may be possible to go home after about 3 hours. However, it is recommended to prepare as if you will spend 1 full day and night in hospital.
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE RISKS OF ANGIOGRAPHY?
Our physicians will explain the reasons and possible risks of the procedure and obtain your signed consent. All details are explained in our consents.
DOES CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY TREAT CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE?
No, it does not. Angiography is an imaging and diagnostic method. It provides information about whether there is narrowing or blockage in your heart vessels. However, the vessels can be opened and treated by placing a stent in the same session with angiography.
PREPARATION BEFORE ANGIOGRAPHY
Discuss any previously identified allergies with your doctor. Bring your prescription or package leaflet with the names and doses of the medicines you are taking. Bring your most recent blood test, ECG, chest X-ray or other heart tests. Share your CD/DVD and report of previous coronary angiography or balloon angioplasty/stent procedure with your doctor.
WHAT TO BRING TO ANGIOGRAPHY?
A family member must be with you.
2. Bring comfortable clothes.
3. Give your valuables to your family member, do not wear jewelry.
WHAT TO DO AFTER ANGIOGRAPHY
You will be discharged from the hospital with a relative.
CATHETER ENTRY SITE CARE;
It is normal for the catheter insertion site to be black or purple for a few days. The insertion site may also be slightly swollen and pink and there may be a small lump (the size of a hazelnut) at the insertion site.
1. This bandage can be removed in the morning after the procedure. If it has not been removed, it should be pulled off while taking a shower.
2. After the bandage is removed, a small band-aid can be applied.
3. Wash the catheter entry site once a day with soapy water without rubbing.
4. Take care to keep this area clean and dry after showering.
5. Do not apply cream, lotion or ointment to the entry site.
6. Wear comfortable clothes and underwear if the procedure is performed in the groin.
ACTIVITY GUIDE
Do not strain for the first 3 to 4 days after the procedure to prevent bleeding from the needle (catheter) insertion site.
Do not enter the pool, jacuzzi, bathtub or sea for one week after the procedure.
We recommend walking around the room for 5-10 minutes in the morning.
Avoid heavy lifting (more than 10 kg) and do not push or pull heavy objects for the first 5 to 7 days after the procedure.
Do not participate in strenuous activities for 5 days after the procedure (jogging, golf, tennis, bowling).
If you use stairs, we recommend going up and down slowly.
Gradually increase your activity level within one week after the procedure.
Consult your doctor if you have any questions about sexual activity.
RETURN TO WORK
Coronary angiography does not restrict your normal life. You are usually allowed to return to work after 24-48 hours. Your doctor will provide specific information about your return to work.
MEDICATIONS
Review medicines with your doctor before you go home. Ask your doctor if you will continue to take your pre-procedure medicines. New medicines may be added to your treatment after the procedure. Make sure you understand how to take them. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor before discharge.
FLUID INTAKE
We recommend that you drink 8-10 glasses of water within 24 hours to flush the contrast agent used during the procedure.
HEALTHY HEART LIFE PROGRAM
For a healthy heart, it is recommended to take your medications regularly, make dietary changes, quit smoking and exercise regularly.
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS
Before you leave our hospital, you will receive a report describing the procedure and its results and a CD/DVD with images. Your doctor will describe the medication you need to take.