How does angiography help to treat the blockage of an artery?

X-ray images help the doctor position the catheter. Once the catheter is in place, dye (contrast material) is injected into the catheter. X-ray images are taken to see how the dye moves through the artery. The dye helps highlight any blockages in blood flow.

Is angiogram safe for elderly?

Coronary angiography is a common medical test that uses dye and X-rays to find out if the heart’s arteries are blocked or narrowed. Although coronary angiography is generally safe, risk of complications is higher in older patients, which may deter doctors from performing such tests on them.

How do you check for heart blockage with angiography?

During a coronary angiogram, a catheter is inserted in an artery in the groin or wrist and threaded through the blood vessels to your heart. A health care provider uses the angiogram to check for blocked or narrowed blood vessels in your heart.

What is the best treatment for blocked arteries?

If you have a blockage that requires treatment, a balloon can be pushed through the catheter and inflated to improve the blood flow in your coronary arteries. A mesh tube (stent) is typically used to keep the dilated artery open. Cardiac CT scan.

What are the alternatives to having an angiogram?

Alternativesto these procedures

• Angioplasty and stents aren’t the only treatments for coronary artery disease.
• Alternative diagnostic techniques.
• Stress testing.
• If you’re able to exercise, an electrocardiogram stress test (Exercise ECG) can be done ahead of an angiogram.

Is an angiogram a serious procedure?

Angiography is generally a safe procedure, but minor side effects are common and there’s a small risk of serious complications. You’ll only have the procedure if the benefits outweigh any potential risk. Speak to your doctor about the risks with having angiography.

Is there a drug that dissolves plaque in arteries?

A drug made from a highly purified form of EPA (an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish) appears to help reduce plaque in the heart’s arteries, according to a study published online Aug. 29, 2020, by the European Heart Journal.

Is angioplasty worth the risk?

The National Health Service notes that angioplasty may lower the risk of another heart attack. It may also increase your chances of survival more than medications that break up blood clots.

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