What is it?
Diagnostic cardiac catheterization is a hemodynamics procedure that evaluates how the heart and blood vessels function by introducing a catheter — a thin, flexible tube — into the heart's chambers.
What is it used for?
It is used to diagnose various cardiovascular conditions: evaluating heart function, measuring pressures inside its chambers, studying how the heart valves work, or completing a diagnosis when non-invasive studies are not sufficient.
How is it performed, in general terms?
Access is gained through a puncture, usually in the wrist or the groin, under local anesthesia. The catheter is guided using imaging to the heart, where data is recorded or contrast is administered depending on the study indicated. It is performed in a room specially equipped for this type of procedure.
Typical preparation
Specific preparation is indicated by the treating team before the procedure (fasting, regular medication, prior studies, documentation to bring). You can review the general guidelines for preparing for a study, which always work alongside your physician's specific instructions.
What happens afterward?
A brief observation period is usually indicated to monitor the puncture site. The medical team provides recommendations about rest and follow-up care based on each case.
Frequently asked questions
It is performed with local anesthesia at the puncture site, so pain is not usually felt. There may be mild discomfort, which the medical team manages.
It depends on the case: it often requires a brief observation period, which your physician will confirm.
Not necessarily. Diagnostic catheterization evaluates the heart and its vessels; if a blockage requiring treatment is detected, an angioplasty may be indicated during the same procedure or in a later one, depending on the case.