Diagnostic and treatment procedures performed in the NGMC Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory

Cardiac catheterization : Diagnostic procedure completed by gently inserting a catheter into the blood vessels that feed the heart. Several injections of x-ray dye are made into the arteries allowing doctors to see heart blockages. Pressure measurements also are taken inside the heart to further evaluate the heart chambers and valves.

Percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty : Also known as PTCI or balloon angioplasty, this interventional procedure involves inserting a balloon-tipped catheter into a blocked heart artery. The balloon is then inflated and deflated to compress the blockage of plaque and increase the blood flow.

Coronary stenting : A stent is a small metal coil, or mesh tube, that may be placed in the artery to help keep it from reclosing by providing a scaffolding-like support. A stent is commonly used in conjunction with a balloon angioplasty and athrectomies atherectomies .

Atherectomies : Technique used to remove plaque from a blocked heart artery. These procedures can be completed using several different state-of-the-art methods that the cath lab has readily available.

Permanent pacemakers : Procedure that involves the implantation of an electronic device that helps the heart maintain regular beats.

Coronary ultrasound : Device which utilizes sound waves to assist in the evaluation of the heart arteries. A small catheter is placed inside the artery, and pictures are taken from within to better define the blockages.

Valvuloplasty : Procedure similar to balloon angioplasty of the heart arteries. The difference is that a larger balloon is used to expand a constricted valve, leading to increased blood flow through the heart.

Peripheral angioplasty : Procedure which examines arteries of the body, i.e. arteries in the leg, for diagnosis and treatment, helping increase the blood flow where needed. Balloons and stents are often used in other arteries outside the heart, including the legs, kidneys and carotid arteries .

Cardiac cath lab procedures require a physician referral and are performed by a cardiologist following an evaluation.