Coronary angiogram

Coronary Angiogram

A Coronary Angiogram (pronounced: kuh-RO-nair-ee AN-jee-o-gram) is a medical procedure that uses X-ray imaging to visualize the blood vessels of the heart, specifically the coronary arteries. This procedure is often performed to diagnose and evaluate the severity of coronary artery disease.

Etymology

The term "Coronary Angiogram" is derived from three words: "Coronary" which refers to the crown-like arrangement of the heart's blood vessels, "Angio" which is Greek for vessel, and "Gram" which means a record or picture.

Procedure

During a Coronary Angiogram, a long, thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or arm. This catheter is then guided to the coronary arteries with the help of a special X-ray machine. A contrast dye is then injected into the blood vessels through the catheter, which makes the coronary arteries visible on the X-ray images.

Uses

Coronary Angiograms are used to diagnose a number of heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, and congenital heart defects. They can also be used to guide treatment decisions, such as whether to perform angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery.

Risks

Like all medical procedures, Coronary Angiograms carry some risks. These can include allergic reactions to the contrast dye, bleeding, infection, and damage to the blood vessels. However, these risks are generally low and the procedure is considered safe when performed by experienced medical professionals.

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Coronary angiogram

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