Coronary Angiogram: Everything You Need to Know About This Heart Test

A coronary angiogram is a specialised angiogram test that helps doctors assess the condition of your heart’s blood vessels. If you’re experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or signs of coronary artery disease, your doctor may recommend this test to check for blockages or narrowing in your arteries.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a coronary angiogram is, how it works, its benefits and risks, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

What Is a Coronary Angiogram?

A coronary angiogram test is a diagnostic procedure that uses X-ray imaging to visualise the blood flow in your coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. If they become blocked or narrowed, it can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or other serious heart conditions.

The procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into the arteries through a thin tube called a catheter. This dye makes the arteries visible on X-ray images, helping doctors detect blockages, plaque buildup, or other abnormalities in the coronary arteries.

Why Is a Coronary Angiogram Done?

Your doctor may recommend a coronary angiogram procedure if you have:

• Chest pain (angina) that suggests reduced blood flow to the heart, often triggered by physical exertion or stress.
• Shortness of breath or other heart-related symptoms that may indicate an underlying issue with the heart’s blood supply.
• Abnormal results from other heart tests, such as an ECG, stress test, or echocardiogram, requiring further investigation to confirm the diagnosis.
• A suspected heart attack or signs of severe coronary artery disease, which may require immediate medical intervention.
• Pre-surgical evaluation, where a coronary angiogram is used to assess heart health before procedures like bypass surgery or stenting to ensure the best possible treatment approach.

Coronary Angiogram Procedure: Step-by-Step

Before the Test

• Your doctor will explain the procedure and ask about medications, allergies, and medical history.
• You may need to fast for a few hours before the test.
• Blood tests and an ECG may be done to assess your overall heart health.

During the Test

• Preparation – You’ll lie on a table in a catheterisation lab. A small area (usually the wrist or groin) will be cleaned and numbed.
• Catheter Insertion – A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is gently guided into an artery and directed toward the heart.
• Contrast Dye Injection – A special dye is injected through the catheter, making the coronary arteries visible on X-ray images.
• Imaging – The doctor takes multiple X-ray images to check for blockages, narrowing, or abnormalities.
• Completion – The catheter is carefully removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding.

After the Test

• You may need to rest for a few hours and avoid strenuous activities for a day or two.
• The doctor will discuss the coronary angiogram results and suggest further treatment if needed.

Understanding Coronary Angiogram Resultsp

The results of a coronary angiogram help doctors determine the next steps for treatment. Here’s what the test might reveal:

• Normal arteries – No blockages, indicating good blood flow.
• Mild narrowing – Some plaque buildup, but no immediate intervention needed.
• Severe blockages – May require angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery to restore proper blood flow.

What Are the Risks of a Coronary Angiogram?

Like any medical procedure, a coronary angiogram has some risks, but serious complications are rare. Coronary angiogram risks may include:

• Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site
• Allergic reactions to the contrast dye
• Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
• Blood clots or damage to the arteries
• Kidney problems (especially in people with pre-existing kidney disease)

Your doctor will take precautions to minimise these risks and ensure a safe procedure.

What Happens After a Coronary Angiogram?

After the test, your doctor will decide the next steps based on your results. If a blockage is found, possible treatments may include:

• Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, exercise, and medication)
• Angioplasty and stenting (a procedure to open narrowed arteries)
• Coronary bypass surgery (for severe blockages that require rerouting blood flow)

When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing persistent chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats, it’s essential to seek medical attention without delay. At SPARSH Hospital, our expert cardiologists in Bangalore provide accurate diagnoses and personalised treatment plans to help you manage your heart health effectively.

As one of the best cardiology hospitals in Bangalore, SPARSH is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring that you receive world-class cardiac care.

Conclusion

A coronary angiogram is a valuable diagnostic tool that helps assess heart health and guide appropriate treatments. If you have symptoms of coronary artery disease, consulting a heart specialist at a reputed cardiology hospital can help ensure timely diagnosis and the best possible care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is done during a coronary angiogram test?

During the procedure, a doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube (catheter) into an artery—usually in the wrist or groin, and then guides it to the heart. A special contrast dye is injected through the catheter, making the arteries visible on X-ray images. This helps doctors identify any narrowing or blockages that could be restricting blood flow.

What if an angiogram shows a blockage?

If the test reveals a blocked or narrowed artery, the next step depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be managed with medications and lifestyle changes, while more serious blockages may require angioplasty (where a stent is placed to open the artery) or even bypass surgery to restore proper blood flow. Your doctor will discuss the best treatment plan for you based on the findings.

What is the age limit for an angiogram?

There’s no fixed age limit for a coronary angiogram. The test is recommended based on symptoms, overall health, and medical history rather than age alone. While older adults may need additional precautions due to existing health conditions, angiograms are commonly performed in both younger and elderly patients when there’s a suspicion of coronary artery disease or other heart issues.

What is the next step after an angiogram?

After an angiogram, the doctor will discuss the results and recommend treatment options. If no blockages are found, lifestyle modifications may be suggested. If significant narrowing is detected, further procedures like angioplasty or surgery may be needed.