Cardiac Catheterization Lab

“I live every day with a heart condition, which means my chance of having another episode is a reality. I feel better knowing that I have exceptional caregivers and physicians just down the street when and if I need care.”-Tom Nemcek, Cardiac Catheterization Patient

Since the early 1990s, Centegra Health System has been performing cardiac catheterization at Centegra Hospital – McHenry. The program has grown and expanded to include three state-of-the-art cath labs capable of providing the highest-quality procedures. With the support of highly skilled cardiologists and clinical staff, Centegra can offer diagnostic caths as well as angioplasty procedures to treat many patients with heart disease.

What is a cardiac catheterization?

Cardiac catheterization is a procedure performed by highly qualified cardiologists in one of three cardiac catheterization labs at the Centegra Heart Center. The test is used to diagnose and treat a number of heart conditions, such as coronary heart disease, heart valve disease and heart muscle disease.

How is a cardiac catheterization performed?

Centegra Heart Center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology for both imaging and procedures. Our experienced Associates assist physicians as they diagnose and treat our patients.Cardiac catheterizations use x-rays to help physicians see blockages in the heart. If you are to going to have a cardiac catheterization, you will receive mild sedation to help you relax. Then, a small area of skin is numbed and a tiny tube is inserted into your groin, wrist or arm.A catheter is inserted into the artery and guided toward the heart. The catheter may be removed and replaced several times. This is done to reach each of the heart chambers and coronary arteries.Once a catheter is inside the heart, the cardiologist can measure the pressures in the left ventricle (the main pumping chamber) and take pictures of the coronary arteries.If you are also having a right heart catheterization, a special catheter is inserted into a vein and guided to the right side of the heart. This is usually done to measure the pressures inside the right heart chambers and in the lungs.

How long does this procedure usually last?

A complete cardiac catheterization procedure usually takes one to two hours.

What should I expect?

The procedure generally is not painful, although you may feel some pressure as the catheters are inserted. You will not feel the catheters as they move through the blood vessels and into your heart. For many, the most difficult part of the procedure is having to lie still.As X-ray contrast is injected into the heart, you may feel a warm sensation through your body, lasting 20 to 30 seconds. You may feel slight nausea, chest discomfort or a mild headache. If you feel pain or discomfort at any time during the procedure, let the staff know.

How should I prepare for a cardiac catheterization?

Generally, you should not to eat or drink anything for six to eight hours before the procedure.
You may be asked to stop some medications before the procedure.
Make arrangements with a friend or family member to drive you to and from the hospital. You will not be able to drive home after the procedure.
Pack a small bag if your cardiologist decides to keep you in the hospital overnight.
Bring a list of the names and dosages of all the medications you are taking.
Tell the cardiologist or nurse if you have had any allergic reactions to medications, X-ray dye, iodine, seafood or if you have a history of bleeding problems.