Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when fatty deposits and cholesterol buildup cause narrowing in the coronary arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart muscles. Over time, this can weaken or damage the heart. If a plaque ruptures or breaks, the body tries to repair it by forming a blood clot around it, which can block blood flow and lead to a heart attack (myocardial infarction).
Benefits of coronary angiography (or cardiac catheterization) include:
Diagnosis: It helps pinpoint heart problems accurately.
Treatment: Often, doctors can treat issues discovered during the procedure, relieving symptoms, potentially prolonging life, and reducing the risk of sudden death, God willing.
Immediate results: Findings are typically available immediately after the procedure.
Definitive treatment: It allows for immediate intervention such as stenting (placing a mesh tube) during the same session upon confirming a diagnosis of clinically significant coronary artery disease.
Reduction of unnecessary tests and medications: It can eliminate the need for additional tests and medications that may not be necessary.
This procedure is crucial for diagnosing and managing coronary artery disease effectively.