The complexity of the heart's structure and function often requires a look from inside the heart to determine the nature and extent of heart-related conditions. We feature Catheterization Labs that perform the latest diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization and Therapeutic Interventional procedures. These procedures allow our cardiologist to evaluate the chambers of the heart, arteries, blood flow and will reveal any abnormalities in the structure of your heart. The highly skilled veteran cath lab team of nurses and technologists have years of experience and contribute to our reputation as a leader in cardiovascular care.
Questions?
How do I prepare for the procedure?
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure because you need to be fasting.
Medications should be taken as scheduled with a sip of water unless special instructions are given to stop our meds. Your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain medications before your Catheterization. Please following your specific
physician's instructions.
If you are an insulin dependent diabetic take 1/2 dose of the am dose and bring the rest with you.
Bring a list of all your medications you are currently taking. Your doctor may want to continue them or change them after your procedure.
Tell your doctor if you take aspirin or a blood thinner because they may need to be stopped several days before the procedure.
Be sure to mention to the doctor or nurse if you have any allergies.
Make arrangements with a family member or friend to drive you home after the procedure - you will not be permitted to drive. Family members and friends can wait in an assigned area.
Pack a small bag in case your doctor decides to keep you overnight in the hospital. You may want to include robe, slippers, toiletries and a book/word games (something to pass the time).
Leave money, jewelry and valuables at home unless a family member or friend can hold them for you during the procedure.
Several routine tests are done before the procedure such as; EKG (electrocardiogram), Blood tests, medical history and exam and Chest x-ray.
What happens during the procedure?
Please review the individualized cardiac procedure or click here to view your interactive procedure that your physician has ordered.
Where is the procedure performed?
In the Cardiac catheterization lab on the first floor of the hospital.
How long does the procedure take?
Usually depends on the results of the test and the patients condition at the time anywhere from 1-3 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
When the procedure is completed, the physician will remove the catheters. To prevent bleeding, pressure will be applied to the catheter insertion site until the bleeding stops. A small sterile dressing will be applied which will be removed the next day. No stitches will be required. You will go to the Cardiac Recovery Unit (CRU) for observation and recovery. You wil be instructed to follow these rules:
Bed rest for 3-6 hours.
Do not cross your legs and keep the legs straight since the catheters were inserted into the groin. It may cause bleeding at the site if you sit up or bend your knees before the appropriate time frame.
Report any symptoms to your nurse such as chest pain, swelling in the insertion sites, warmth, or anything unusual.
The assigned and highly skilled registered nurse will make sure you are comfortable, answer any questions or concerns, check your blood pressure and heart rhythm (EKG), help you with urination, give you something to eat and drink, etc.
