What is it?
Coronary angiography is an invasive imaging test: a thin tube (catheter) is guided from the wrist or groin artery to the heart arteries and contrast dye is injected so that narrowings and blockages become visible on X-ray.
Who needs it?
Patients with chest pain, a positive stress test or nuclear scan, heart attack, unexplained heart failure, and before some valve surgeries.
How is it done?
It is done under local anaesthesia with light sedation and usually takes 20–40 minutes. Radial (wrist) access is our default: less bleeding and faster mobilisation.
Before the procedure
Fast for 6 hours, bring a list of your medicines (especially blood thinners, metformin and insulin), report any contrast allergy or kidney disease, and bring recent kidney and clotting tests.
After & recovery
Most patients go home the same or next day. Avoid lifting heavy objects with the treated arm for 48 hours and drink plenty of fluids.
Risks & safety
Serious complications are rare (<1%): bruising at the access site, contrast reactions and, rarely, kidney injury or rhythm disturbance. You are fully monitored throughout.
Frequently asked questions
Is angiography painful?
No. With local anaesthesia you feel only slight pressure, and perhaps a brief warm sensation during injection.
When will I get my results?
Initial findings are explained right after the test, and the full report is posted to your online record.
This content does not replace an examination by your physician. For chest pain or severe shortness of breath, call your local emergency number immediately.