Coronary Angiography (CAG) or cardiac catheterization is performed in patients suffering or having symptoms of IHD (Ischemic heart disease) and to check the status of the coronaries. The symptoms include: breathlessness / dyspnea on exertion, left arm pain, and chest pain on exertion or at rest.
Angiography is a day-care procedure, which requires one day admission. No overnight stay is required, unless a further treatment line or intervention is advised by the treating doctor. It is performed through the groin or the radial artery, with a guide wire / catheter. A contrast then is passed through the blood vessels, which allows the cardiologist view the coronaries.
If thinning of the arteries or blockage is diagnosed, then further intervention or medical management is recommended.