Cardiac catheterization is an invasive diagnostic procedure that is performed to examine blood flow to the heart and determine how well the heart is pumping. The exam assesses the heart’s arteries, valves, and contractility, as well as the pressures in the heart and lungs.

During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into an artery in the arm or leg. Under x-ray guidance, the catheter is advanced into the chambers of the heart and the coronary arteries. X-ray dye may also be injected into the coronary arteries to determine whether there is a blockage and into the main pumping chamber of the heart to evaluate its function.

You’ll be awake during the cardiac catheterization procedure, but you’ll be given sedatives to relax and local anesthesia will be used. The risk of complications with cardiac catheterization is low and recovery time is relatively quick. To prepare for the procedure, don’t eat or drink anything for 8 to 12 hours before your test and bring along a list of all of the medications and supplements that you take with you to your appointment. If possible, bring the original bottles so it’s known exactly what dosages you take. The procedure is usually done as an outpatient within the hospital.