Diagnostic
Coronary Angiography
The gold-standard test to map blockages inside the heart's arteries.
What it is
Coronary angiography is a special X-ray test that shows the inside of the arteries that supply blood to your heart muscle. A thin, soft tube (catheter) is gently guided from the wrist or groin up to the heart. A safe contrast dye is then injected so the blockages, narrowings, and any weak spots in the arteries become clearly visible on a live cine X-ray.
When it's needed
- Chest pain or pressure on walking, climbing stairs, or with stress
- After a heart attack or suspected heart attack
- Abnormal ECG, stress test, or echocardiogram
- Before any major non-cardiac surgery in high-risk patients
- Unexplained breathlessness in patients with risk factors (diabetes, smoking, family history)
How it's done
The procedure is done in the cathlab under local anaesthesia — you stay awake. Dr. Nikhila prefers the wrist (radial) route whenever possible because patients can sit up and walk within hours. The test usually takes 15–20 minutes. You will see the live images on the screen and the doctor will explain the findings on the same table.
Recovery
Most patients go home the same day. The wrist or groin site is gently pressed for some hours. You should drink plenty of water to flush out the dye. Normal walking is allowed by the same evening. Heavy lifting is avoided for 2–3 days.
FAQ
Questions patients ask us most
Is coronary angiography painful?+
No. Only a small numbing prick is felt at the wrist or groin. You are awake but comfortable. Most patients are surprised at how easy it is.
How long does the test take?+
The actual angiogram takes 15–20 minutes. Including preparation and observation, plan for 3–4 hours at the hospital.
Will I need angioplasty if a blockage is found?+
Not always. Many blockages are best treated with medicines and lifestyle changes. Dr. Nikhila always discusses every option — medication, angioplasty, or bypass — with you and your family before any decision.
How safe is angiography?+
It is one of the safest cardiac tests. Serious complications occur in less than 1 in 1,000 cases in experienced centres. Dr. Nikhila has personally performed over 15,000 angiographies.
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