Services and Programs
Neonatology
Tests and Procedures
Cardiac Catherization
A cardiac catheterization, sometimes called an angiogram, is
a detailed x-ray of the heart. If it is recommended
by a pediatric cardiologist that your baby has this test, here
is what you should expect:
-
Your child is brought to the cardiac catheterization laboratory
(or cath lab) by a NICU nurse and/or medical provider.
-
The procedure is done through the femoral vein and/or artery
which is located in the groin area. The cardiologist will guide
a thin, plastic tube (catheter) through the vein and/or artery
to the heart.
-
Next, the cardiologist will measure oxygen levels and blood
flow in the heart. Pictures (x-rays) will be taken by injecting
dye (contrast) into the catheter and filming it while it goes
through the heart.
-
After the procedure is complete, the cardiologist may remove
the catheter. A large gauze bandage may be placed on the
groin to keep it from bleeding. Your baby’s leg and
foot may appear discolored after the procedure, but they will
return to
normal
in a few days to a week.
-
The entire procedure may take 2-3 hours. At the end of the
procedure, the cardiologist will discuss the results of your
baby’s
cardiac catheterization with you.
-
The nurse and medical provider will bring your baby back to
the NICU where they will be closely monitoring his/her blood
pressure, pulses, and vital signs.
-
If you have any questions about the procedure, please don’t
hesitate to ask your baby’s nurse, medical provider,
or the pediatric cardiologist.
