Coronary Angiography

A coronary angiography test helps a lot when your doctor tries to determine if the coronary artery that transports blood and oxygen to the heart muscle is blocked or narrowed, and develops an appropriate treatment plan to lower the risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) and a heart attack.

Coronary angiography is a common diagnostic test administered to detect the buildup of plaque due to accumulation of cholesterol & other substances, and an obstruction in blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart muscle. The buildup or narrowing of blood vessels cause hindrance to the regular flow of oxygen-rich blood through arteries into your heart and may result in angina, chest pain, aortic stenosis, or unexplained heart failure. Using coronary angiography, the physician can investigate the extent of coronary artery disease, and determine an effective treatment plan to improve the heart-health and prevent further complications.

Our cardiology care at American Hospital Dubai is known for its ability to diagnose, treat, and develop a rehabilitation plan for patients with simple to complex cardiac conditions using state-of-the-art technology and advanced invasive and non-invasive methods. In fact, many patients turn to us when cardiac services at other healthcare facilities have been ineffective in diagnosing and addressing cardiovascular disorders or unable to perform surgeries on complicated coronary artery blockages.

Why is Coronary Angiography Performed?

A doctor may recommend having a coronary angiography if the patient has the following conditions:

  • A family history of coronary artery disease
  • Angina for the first time or unstable angina
  • Aortic stenosis or another valve problem
  • ECG abnormalities
  • Atypical chest pain (right side, shoulder tip, etc).
  • Abnormal heart stress test
  • Heart surgery, but you are at high risk of developing coronary artery disease
  • Heart attack

The angiography is also performed post-by-pass and post stent for assessing the functioning and health of the heart and blood vessels.

Preparing for Coronary Angiography:

Once the cardiac-care specialist suggests the coronary angiogram, the patient will be advised to:

  • Avoid eating or drinking for 8 hours before the commencement of the test
  • Either stay in the hospital the night before the test or check in to the hospital the morning of the test, depending upon the health condition
  • Wear a hospital gown
  • Sign a consent form before the test

During a consultation, we encourage patients to discuss with the doctor if they are allergic to any medicines, have had a reaction to the dye material in a previous angiogram, taking any medicines or have a pregnancy.

How is Coronary Angiography Performed?

The diagnostic test relies on a powerful X-ray machine to create images of a heart and its blood vessels. The patient lies on a long table that slides through a machine. An IV line is inserted into the hand or arm to inject a special dye that enhances the visibility of the heart’s arteries, while various electrodes are placed over the chest to record heart rate.

During the scan, the patient is advised to stay still and hold the breath for a few seconds to avoid blurry images. Coronary angiography is often carried out in conjunction with cardiac catheterization that helps measure pressures in the heart chambers. The whole process may take up to an hour to conclude, whereas patients may continue their normal activities immediately.

Book an Appointment:

You can request a consultation with the best-in-class Cardiologists in Dubai or book Coronary Angiogram at American Hospital Dubai simply by filling out our secure online form appearing on your monitor-screen. One of our staff members will get in touch with you to schedule your appointment or the coronary angiography test.

American Hospital Panel of Doctors

Firas Raouf Alani

Consultant Interventional & Structural Heart

Arabic, English

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