In a cardiac catheterization procedure, a small, hollow tube is inserted into a blood vessel. Once inserted, a number of procedures can be performed through the catheter, including measuring the pressure within the heart’s chambers, collecting biopsies, angiogram, and angioplasty.
The Cardiac Catherization Laboratory at Gateway Regional Medical Center is equipped with specialized equipment that allow cardiologists to instantly see moving images of the heart. During the procedure, a thin plastic tube (a catheter) is guided through a main artery in the leg or arm and up to the heart. Once the catheter is in the heart, the physician injects a dye, which helps tract blood flow in the image. If the physician identifies arteries that are narrow or blocked, there are several interventional procedures which can often be used to improve blood flow.
A number of procedures can be performed through the catheter, including:
- Measuring the pressure within the heart’s chamber
- Biopsies
- Angiogram
- Angioplasty
For more information, please contact:
Gateway Regional Medical Center
2100 Madison Ave
Granite City, IL 62040
Call: (618)798-3000
Email: Christina Schlaikjer