Coronary Angiography

A minimally invasive imaging test that lets us see inside your coronary arteries and pinpoint blockages.

What is coronary angiography?

Coronary angiography combines a thin, flexible catheter, a contrast dye, and X-ray imaging to produce detailed, real-time pictures of the arteries that supply your heart. It is the gold-standard way to find narrowings or blockages in the coronary arteries and to measure exactly how severe they are.

Why it's done

We may recommend angiography if you have chest pain (angina), an abnormal stress test, an abnormal echocardiogram, or symptoms suggesting reduced blood flow to the heart. It confirms whether a blockage is present, where it is, and how best to treat it.

How to prepare

You will usually be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours beforehand. Bring a list of your medications — we'll tell you which to hold (for example, certain diabetes or blood-thinning medicines) and which to continue. Because of the light sedation, arrange for someone to drive you home.

What happens during the procedure

The area at your wrist or groin is numbed with local anesthesia and you receive light sedation to keep you comfortable. A catheter is gently guided to the heart, dye is injected, and X-ray images are captured. You are awake but relaxed, and the imaging itself takes only a few minutes.

Recovery and aftercare

Most patients go home the same day. If the wrist was used, you're usually up and about quickly; if the groin was used, you'll lie flat for a few hours. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for a day or two. Importantly, if a significant blockage is found, it can often be treated in the same session with angioplasty and a stent.

Is it safe?

Coronary angiography is very safe and performed routinely. Minor bruising or soreness at the access site is common. Serious complications are rare, and we review your individual risks with you beforehand so you know exactly what to expect.

Insurance & scheduling

We accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare. When a test or treatment is medically necessary, it is typically covered — our team verifies your benefits and explains any out-of-pocket costs before you begin. Request an appointment through our contact page or call (281) 807-5253.

Cardiology & vein care for Tomball & Cypress

Northwest Cardiovascular Clinic is located just off SH 249 (Tomball Parkway) in northwest Houston, serving patients throughout Tomball, Cypress, Spring, and the greater Houston area. Dr. Ismail Dairywala, MD, FACC brings over two decades of cardiovascular experience to every visit. Contact us to schedule a consultation.

Frequently asked questions

Is coronary angiography painful?

No. The access site at the wrist or groin is numbed, and you receive light sedation. You may feel a brief warm flush when the dye is injected, but the procedure itself is not painful.

How long does coronary angiography take?

The imaging itself takes only a few minutes; with preparation and recovery, plan for a few hours at the office. Most patients go home the same day.

What is the recovery like?

If the wrist was used, you're usually up quickly; if the groin was used, you'll lie flat for a few hours. Avoid heavy lifting for a day or two. Minor bruising at the site is normal.

Can a blockage be treated during the same procedure?

Yes. If a significant blockage is found, it can often be opened in the same session with angioplasty and a stent, sparing you a second procedure.

Is coronary angiography safe?

It is very safe and performed routinely. Serious complications are rare, and your individual risks are reviewed with you beforehand.

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