Cardiac catheterization, also known as a heart cath, is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of various cardiovascular conditions. It provides detailed information about the structure and function of the heart and allows for minimally invasive interventions to address specific cardiac issues.

Dr. Patrick Flaherty, interventional cardiologist, explains what happens during a heart cath procedure.

“A heart cath is how we make a roadmap of what is going on with somebody’s coronary artery tree,” he said. “We find an artery that has an open pathway to the heart, and we insert an intra-arterial line that will allow us to run a plastic tube known as a catheter either up the arm or through the femoral groin arteries that will be directed under x-ray to the coronary arteries.”

Once the catheter is in place, dye (contrast) is delivered through the catheter, and x-ray images are taken to visualize the blood flow.

“The contrast will replace blood flow for a very short period, typically a couple of seconds, and allows us to see if the flow is wide open or if there is a sudden obstruction to that flow where there is a blockage,” Dr. Flaherty said.

How Long Does a Heart Cath Take?

The duration of the procedure can vary but generally takes around 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the complexity of the case and whether any interventions are performed.

Who Needs a Heart Cath?

A cardiac catheterization procedure may be recommended for individuals who are experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for various heart conditions. Some common indications for cardiac catheterization include:

• Chest pain (angina)
• Heart attack
• Abnormal stress test or imaging results
• Heart valve disease
• Congenital heart defects
• Heart failure

It’s important to note that the decision to undergo cardiac catheterization is made based on individual patient factors, including symptoms, medical history, and results of other diagnostic tests. The procedure is typically recommended when the potential benefits outweigh the risks for the individual patient.

What are the Risks of a Heart Cath?

Like any medical procedure, cardiac catheterization carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, allergic reaction to the contrast dye, damage to blood vessels, and complications related to anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.

How Long is the Recovery Time After a Heart Cath?

After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours to ensure stability. You may need to lie flat for a period of time to minimize the risk of bleeding from the catheter insertion site. Most patients can return home the same day but should avoid strenuous activities for a few days.

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We know how critical a healthy heart is to a healthy body. It’s through our highest expectations in quality and excellence through innovation that we’re able to keep our patients’ hearts healthy for years to come. Want to learn more about our patient-centered, specialized cardiac care? Discover our wide range of cardiac care services or ask your primary care provider for a referral today.

Learn what to expect before, during and after a heart cath at AHH.

When deciding whether to go to an emergency room (ER) or make an appointment with your primary care doctor or cardiologist, it is important to consider the symptoms you are experiencing and the severity of them. Dr. Vijay Raja, interventional cardiologist, explains.

When to go the ER

“If you’re having any symptoms that are out of the ordinary or brand new, debilitating or just scary, that’s what an emergency room is perfect for. That’s why Arkansas Heart Hospital is open 24/7 and available,” says Dr. Raja.

Debilitating symptoms may be chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, which can be signs of a heart attack. You seek medical attention by calling 911 or visiting your nearest ER right away.

Symptoms of a heart attack:

• Severe or persistent pain – If you’re experiencing severe, persistent, or new and unexplained chest pain that doesn’t go away with medication, rest, or over-the-counter medication, seek emergency medical attention. This may feel like a crushing or searing pain that radiates to your arms, neck, jaws or back.
• Shortness of breath – Unexplained difficulty breathing or feeling like you can’t catch your breath, could be a sign of a heart or lung condition. Go to the ER instead of waiting to make an appointment with a cardiologist.
• Dizziness or fainting – If you’re experiencing if you’re feeling dizzy, lightheaded or faint, this could be a sign of a cardiac event. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

When to make an appointment with a doctor

What if you are not experiencing these severe symptoms? It’s better to make an appointment with your primary care doctor or cardiologist for further testing and evaluation rather than going to the ER.

“For things that are progressive and are not doing as well as they were a week ago, a month ago, six months ago, that’s when your primary care doctor and cardiologist are there to get testing and rule out certain things,” Dr. Raja says. “That’s what we do for a lot of patients – give them that peace of mind that it is or not their heart.”

A benefit of making an appointment with a doctor if they know your health history, what medications you are taking and what chronic conditions might need to be considered in your treatment. Plus, the co-pay for a visit to your doctor’s office will cost far less than a trip to the emergency room. This option can also help you avoid the long wait times typically found in an emergency room.

Even if you are not experiencing any major symptoms, it is always a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor, who will do a physical exam and review your medical history to determine if you should be referred to a cardiologist for further testing and treatment.

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Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, anytime to anyone, often without warning. That’s why it’s vital to know how to use an AED. Arkansas Heart Hospital walks you through the steps.

Determine your risk for cardiovascular disease and take action today by talking with one of our cardiologists or your primary care physician.

Research shows that 30 percent of heart attacks occur during the cold winter months, and those with heart conditions are particularly susceptible to cardiac events. Why would cold weather affect your heart?

Dr. Mahesh Bavineni, general cardiologist, explains that temperatures below 30 degrees causes blood vessels in your skin, toes and fingers to constrict to avoid losing heat.

“This causes a lot of burden on the heart’s pumping system, so your heart must pump faster, harder to keep you warm. People who have blockages in the heart or are at risk for heart problems are more prone to heart attacks.”

He shares five tips to protect your heart in cold temperatures.

Avoid long exposure to the cold.

If you must go outside, don’t stay long and make sure you’re well-insulated. “If you know you’re going to be in the cold dress up in water-resistant layers: coat, scarf, hat and gloves,” Dr. Bavineni says.

Limit strenuous exercise.

Shoveling snow or engaging in strenuous activities outside can put extra strain on your heart. “You don’t need to shovel snow if you have heart conditions,” Dr. Bavineni says. “Ask your neighbor or phone a friend for help.”

Watch over-eating and alcohol.

It’s easy to indulge in food and alcohol in the winter months, especially if you struggle with seasonal affective disorder or “winter blues.” Avoid overconsumption of fatty, rich foods and alcohol, which puts even more strain on your heart.

Stick to a heart healthy diet.

Eating for heart health doesn’t end in the summer. Eat your veggies, fruits, lean proteins and whole grains during the winter to support your cardiovascular system all year.

Listen to your body.

If you’re having symptoms, go to the ER and talk with your doctor, Dr. Bavineni stresses. Before the winter hits, make sure you know the signs of a heart attack.

Sudden cardiac arrest can occur anywhere, anytime to anyone, often without warning. Take your heart health in your own hands and learn your cardiovascular for cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke risk before it’s too late. Discover our wide range of cardiac care services or ask your primary care provider for a referral today.

Dr. Bavineni talks with KATV about how cold weather affects the heart.