Cardiac Angiography and Angiogram

In Cuba, cardiac angiography and angiograms are used to diagnosis, and in some cases, treat cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease, blockages or narrowing of the coronary arteries, aneurysms, congenital heart defects, heart valve disease, and other vascular abnormalities affecting the heart.  

Angiography is an imaging technique used to visualize the inside of blood vessels and organs, especially the arteries, veins, and heart chambers. This procedure provides detailed images that help medical professionals make accurate diagnoses and plan appropriate treatments. 

An angiogram is the X-ray image produced during angiography. 

Benefits of an Angiography / Angiogram 

• Accurate Diagnosis: An angiogram provides detailed and precise images of blood vessels and heart structures allowing for identifying the exact location and extent of blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities within the arteries. By visualizing the blood flow and vessel anatomy in real-time, angiograms enable accurate detection and assessment of cardiovascular conditions aiding in the formulation of effective treatment plans and ensuring timely and appropriate medical or surgical interventions. 

• Minimally Invasive: Being minimally invasive, associated risks are greatly reduced in comparison to surgical alternatives, resulting in shorter recovery times. Using a small catheter inserted through a blood vessel eliminates the need for large incisions, thereby minimizing pain, scarring, and the potential for infection. Additionally, this approach allows for shorter hospital stays, faster return to daily activities, and less overall physical trauma.  

• Preventive Care: Due to its precise imaging, angiograms enable early detection and intervention of cardiovascular issues before they become severe or life-threatening conditions. This early detection is vital in preventing heart attacks, strokes, and other serious complications associated with untreated cardiovascular diseases. 

The Procedure 

• Local Anesthetic: A local anesthetic is applied to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted, usually in the groin, arm, or wrist. 

• Access Point: A small incision is made at the numbed site, and a sheath (a short, hollow tube) is inserted into the blood vessel. 

• Catheter Placement: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is guided through the sheath into the blood vessel. The catheter is carefully maneuvered heart or vessels). 

• Dye Injection: Once the catheter is in place, a special contrast dye is injected through it. This dye travels through the bloodstream and highlights the blood vessels on the X-ray images. 

• Imaging: A series of X-ray images are taken as the dye moves through the vessels, providing detailed visuals of the blood flow and any blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities. 

Post-Procedure 

• Catheter and Sheath Removal: After the imaging is complete, the catheter and sheath are carefully removed. 

• Monitoring: The patient is monitored for a few hours to ensure there are no immediate complications, such as bleeding or an allergic reaction to the dye. 

Follow-Up 

• Results Discussion: Any findings from the results of the angiogram are discussed. Should the angiogram confirm the presence of disease, the potential next steps will be discussed, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or further procedures like angioplasty or surgery. 

• Activity Restrictions: Patients may be advised to avoid strenuous activities for a day or two, depending on the insertion site and their overall health.