Strong Heart and Vascular Center

Cardiac Catheterization Labs

A cardiac biopsy is a procedure to take samples of heart tissue for evaluation. Some reasons it is performed:

After a heart transplant, to check for rejection of your new heart.
If a patient has a cardiomyopathy (weak heart muscle), it is done to find the cause (for example, possible infection).

You will be contacted by a nurse from the Cardiac Cath Lab 1-2 business days prior to your procedure to review health history and instructions. The questions we ask are necessary to assure proper medical care. The phone call will take approximately 10-15 minutes.
You will be asked about current medications, their dosages, and any allergies you have.
Inform nurse if you are taking Warfarin/Coumadin. Please ask when to stop taking Warfarin/Coumadin.
Please inform nurse of any allergies especially to IVP dye or Contrast.
Blood work is required prior to your procedure.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.

You will be instructed on which medications you may take with water.
Arrive at the given time; there is no need to arrive early.
You will meet several people who will be your health care team.
The procedure, including benefits and risks involved, will be discussed with you.

IV medicine may be given to help you relax and keep you comfortable. That decision will be made between you and the physician doing the procedure.
Your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level will be monitored frequently.
The procedure is performed under sterile conditions.
Medication will be used to numb the entry site (either the groin area or neck area). The best site will be determined by you and the physician.
How it feels—There is some stinging and/or burning as the numbing medicine is placed.
A small hollow tube (catheter) will be placed in the vein and then directed to the heart under x-ray type guidance and blood pressures measured throughout the different areas.
How it feels—There is some pressure at the site. No sensations are felt in the heart.
A special catheter will be directed to right ventricle and samples of your myocardium (heart muscle) will be obtained.
How it feels—There are usually no sensations.
Test takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Once the procedure is over, the tube in your vein will be pulled out and pressure will be held.
The physician will talk with you and a family member per your request.

Monitored for 1-3 hours after the procedure, especially for signs of bleeding.
You may be on bedrest for 1-3 hours after the procedure.
One visitor at a time will be allowed to sit with you.
Before you go home, discharge instructions will be reviewed with you and a responsible adult.
Please remember: If you receive sedating medicine or the tube goes into your leg vein, you must arrange a ride home accompanied by a responsible adult. Once home, a responsible adult must be with you for 1 hour.

Upon discharge, we will provide you with a phone number to contact us if you experience any of the following: