Cardiac - Invasive / Interventional

Angiogram

An angiogram is an intricate procedure that allows a cardiologist (a doctor who specializes in functions of the heart) to guide a thin plastic tube called a catheter to the heart to determine if there is any narrowing or blockage within the coronary arteries (arteries that supply the heart muscle).

Freezing is injected into one side of the patient’s groin area. The patient may feel some pressure in this area as the doctor finds the artery and makes a small incision. Once the incision is made, a sheath is inserted into the artery and acts as a guideline or tunnel for the catheter to follow to the heart. The patient will not feel the catheter as it moves through their artery and into their heart.

At different times during the test, small amounts of contrast media (dye) are injected into the coronary arteries or chambers of the heart in order for sharper images to be taken. As the contrast media is injected, the patient will be asked to take a deep breath and to hold it while a series of x-rays are taken and recorded onto film.

When the angiogram has been completed, the cardiologist will remove the catheter and apply firm pressure to the puncture site using a mechanical clamp to stop the bleeding.

The patient will then be transferred to a stretcher and taken to the recovery area for approximately three to four hours for close observation and routine care.

The cardiologist will briefly review the results with the patient immediately following the test. An office visit with the patient’s cardiologist will be arranged for two to three weeks following the angiogram to discuss further treatment plans.

Individuals wishing more information on angiograms, please click here.

Special Note: The diagnostic benefits of an angiogram outweigh the risks associated with exposure to x-ray radiation injections of contrast media.

PCI/Angioplasty

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) or angioplasty is a specialized procedure used to clear blockages within the coronary arteries—blood vessels that feed oxygen to the heart. Depending on the location and severity of the blockage and the patient’s specific risk factors, a balloon, as well as a stent or a stent with medications embedded within it, are utilized during the procedure.

A thin plastic tube called a catheter with a special balloon is inserted into the coronary artery at the site of the narrowing. By inflating the balloon, it opens and stretches the artery slowly, which results in improved blood flow to the heart. If required, a metal coil called a stent may be used to keep the coronary artery open. Once the stent is inserted, it is enlarged and pressed against the sides of the blood vessel.

Individuals wishing more information on PCI or angioplasty, please click here.

PCI Clinic

Individuals who are scheduled to have a PCI procedure and are not admitted to the Hospital will be given an appointment at the York PCI Group Inc. Clinic approximately one to two weeks before their procedure. During their clinic visit, patients will visit with a registered nurse and be assessed by an interventional cardiologist (a doctor who is qualified to perform PCI procedures).

The York PCI Group Inc. Clinic is located at:

641 Davis Drive
Newmarket , ON
L3Y 2R2
T: 905-898-5800

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For information on resources available to you during your hospital visit or stay (for example: parking, what to bring, discharge times and other helpful information) please click on Patients and Visitors.