Koronarográfia

Koronarográfia, also known as coronary angiography, is a medical imaging procedure used to examine the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. It is considered the gold standard for diagnosing coronary artery disease, which is caused by the buildup of plaque in these arteries.

The procedure typically involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into an artery, usually in the groin or arm. This catheter is then guided through the blood vessels to the coronary arteries. Once in place, a special dye, or contrast agent, is injected through the catheter. This dye is visible on X-ray images, allowing doctors to see the flow of blood through the coronary arteries. Any blockages or narrowing in the arteries will appear as dark areas on the X-ray.

Koronarográfia is performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory and requires local anesthesia. Patients are usually awake during the procedure, which typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. After the procedure, patients are monitored for a few hours before being discharged.

The information obtained from a koronarográfia helps doctors determine the severity of coronary artery disease and plan the most appropriate treatment. This may include lifestyle changes, medication, angioplasty with stenting, or coronary artery bypass surgery. While generally safe, potential risks include bleeding, infection, allergic reaction to the contrast dye, or damage to the blood vessel.