Angiography, also known as coronary angiography, is an imaging method performed to examine the coronary arteries. During this procedure, a very thin and flexible tube called a catheter is typically inserted into an artery, usually in the groin area. The catheter is guided to the heart vessels to be examined, and a contrast agent (dye) is injected through it. As the contrast agent flows through the blood vessels, X-ray images are taken for detailed visualization of the vascular structures.
If the right femoral artery is not suitable for access, alternative access routes such as the left femoral artery, right or left radial arteries (wrist), brachial artery (elbow), or axillary artery (armpit) may be used.
The coronary angiography procedure generally takes 10 to 20 minutes. Differences in the anatomical structures of the vessels or significant tortuosity (especially in the abdominal and groin vessels) may slightly extend this duration. For patients who have undergone bypass surgery, the procedure can take 20 to 30 minutes.
After the procedure is completed, the catheter is removed from the access site, and manual pressure is applied for 15-20 minutes to stop bleeding. Once bleeding is controlled, a tight bandage and, if necessary, a weight are applied, and the patient is kept on bed rest for approximately 4-6 hours. At the end of this period, the patient is allowed to stand up and is discharged.
During angiography, typically 5 different angles (views) are used to visualize the left coronary arteries, and 2-3 views for the right coronary artery. To visualize the left ventricle, the heart's main pumping chamber, 15-25 cc of contrast agent is used, and 2 views are taken.
The patient may take a shower the following day. If there is no excessive swelling, uncomfortable pain, or large bruising at the access site, they can return to their daily routine activities.