Cardiac Catheterization Procedure , Treatment, Cost in India

Introduction: Redefining Precision Heart Care

Coronary artery disease is one of numerous heart problems that may be identified and treated with cardiac catheterization, a minimally invasive cardiac treatment.

A catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into a blood vessel and into the heart to measure blood flow, pressure, and the existence of heart artery obstruction. Cardiac catheterization technology enables physicians to observe coronary arteries in real time and make accurate therapy recommendations.

Cardiac catheterization is now an exceedingly accurate, safe, and patient-centered assessment, thanks to developments in cath lab procedure technology. It is essential for life-saving therapies such as coronary stent implantation, early detection, and treatment planning.

Patients benefit from reduced discomfort, faster recovery, and personalized treatment when they work with competent interventional cardiologists.

Why is Cardiac Cath Recommended?

A heart catheterization procedure is suggested when symptoms or test findings indicate decreased cardiac blood flow. Typical symptoms include dyspnea, chest discomfort, unexplained exhaustion, aberrant ECG readings, or positive stress test results.

It can accurately detect coronary artery disease, heart muscle dysfunction, congenital heart abnormalities, and valve problems.

A cardiac catheterization test, unlike other noninvasive examinations, allows for a direct view of the coronary arteries as well as exact pressure readings within the heart chambers. The detailed information obtained this way helps cardiologists precisely locate the site and extent of cardiac artery obstruction. In emergencies, such as a suspected heart attack, cardiac catheterization is often the quickest and most accurate technique to confirm the diagnosis and initiate treatment.

The technique is also used to inspect heart valves, evaluate cardiac output, and test oxygen levels. It aids in the long-term treatment planning of patients with established coronary artery disease. Importantly, cardiac catheterization enables a smooth transition from diagnosis to therapy, allowing for prompt procedures such as angioplasty or, if necessary, the implantation of a heart stent.

Cardiac catheterization performed by a skilled interventional cardiologist in a state-of-the-art lab leads to better clinical outcomes, lower risks, and higher success rates. However, a certified cardiac expert should thoroughly explore each unique decision based on the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and previous exams.

The HCG Advantage: Advanced Technology & Expert Cardiologists

HCG Hospitals provides cardiac catheterization services with the help of highly skilled interventional cardiologists and cutting-edge cath lab equipment. Accuracy, safety, and patient-centered treatment are the top priorities. High-resolution imaging technologies, real-time monitoring, and tight safety measures allow for precise diagnosis and treatment.

HCG’s cardiology staff has been trained to handle emergencies and execute both simple and complicated catheterization procedures. Interdisciplinary teamwork, infection control methods, and integrated critical care assistance all contribute to better clinical results. Patients gain from faster recuperation, shorter operating times, and simpler procedures.

Using advanced cath lab technology, HCG Hospitals delivers reliable cardiac catheterization services that follow worldwide clinical recommendations while assuring transparency, comfort, and informed decision-making for each patient by integrating technology, knowledge, and proven treatment routes.

Step-by-Step Patient Journey

Before the Procedure

Before the cardiac catheterization, the doctor will carry out a thorough cardiac evaluation.
The doctor examines the patient’s medical history, prescriptions, symptoms, and test findings from prior visits.
Pre-procedure testing may include blood tests, renal function evaluations, electrocardiograms, and appropriate imaging.
The cardiac catheterization procedure is recommended only after ensuring that the required parameters are within agreeable limits.
The doctor will explain the cardiac catheterization procedure to the patient and address if there are any concerns.

During the Procedure

On the day of the cath lab operation, the patient is admitted and prepped in a sterile area.
Vital signs are continually checked while an intravenous line is inserted.
To keep the patient comfortable and responsive, the treatment is typically provided under local anesthetic with little sedation.
A small puncture is created in the wrist or groin, and a catheter is carefully directed to the heart using imaging.
Contrast dye is used to see the coronary arteries and heart chambers.
An interventional cardiologist assesses blood pressure, blood flow, and the existence of coronary artery disease or heart artery blockages.
If necessary, treatments such as balloon angioplasty or cardiac stent placement can be performed during the same session.

After the Procedure

After the operation, the catheter is withdrawn, and the access site is closed.
The patient is transferred to a recovery area for observation.
Vital signs, access site, and kidney function are constantly checked.
Most patients may sit up after a few hours and resume mild activities the same day or the next, depending on their clinical state.

Doctors provide clear explanations of the findings, along with recommendations for subsequent therapy or lifestyle changes. This will help patients make informed decisions for their health and well-being. Discharge instructions include discussions about medications, hydration guidelines, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.

Interventional Treatments (Beyond Diagnosis)

In addition to diagnostics, cardiac catheterization allows for many types of interventional treatment. If there is a substantial coronary artery blockage, angioplasty may be used to restore blood flow. This method is performed by inflating a tiny balloon at the narrowed section of the artery.

An angioplasty often involves the implantation of a heart stent. A stent is a thin mesh tube that keeps the artery open and helps in the maintenance of normal blood flow in the long term. Drug-eluting stents may be utilized in some cases to lessen the likelihood of re-narrowing. Personalized treatment planning is made based on factors such as disease severity, arterial structure, and patient characteristics.

Other interventional treatments include the treatment of rhythm abnormalities, valve constriction, and the closure of various congenital heart defects. Heart catheterization helps deliver immediate treatments, reduce delays, and sometimes avoid open heart surgery.

All interventional therapies are carried out in a cath lab setting by qualified interventional cardiologists following established clinical criteria. Our doctors discuss the results and risks in advance and provide detailed post-procedure monitoring recommendations.

How is Cardiac Catheterization Different from Regular Angiography?

Regular angiography is mostly used to see blood vessels for diagnostic purposes. Cardiac catheterization, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive operation that involves pressure, oxygen, therapeutic capabilities, and angiography.

Even if angiography reveals blockages, the cardiac catheterization method enables real-time monitoring of heart function and prompt intervention if necessary. It allows for the simultaneous performance of less invasive cardiac treatments such as angioplasty and coronary stent implantation.

In essence, angiography is a component of cardiac catheterization. The cath lab technique is more adaptive and therapeutically significant than angiography alone because it provides a full approach that includes diagnostics, decision-making, and therapy.

Cost of Cardiac Catheterization at HCG Hospitals

A cardiac catheterization procedure generally costs ₹15,000 – ₹40,000. It is important to note that the cost can vary from one patient to another, as it depends on factors like the kind of stent utilized, the length of hospital stay, individual clinical requirements, and the purpose of the treatment (diagnostic versus interventional).

For more details on the precise costs of the cardiac catheterization procedure, patients should visit HCG Hospitals or any other nearby hospital.

FAQ’S

Will I be put under general anesthesia (fully asleep)?

I have kidney issues (high creatinine). Can I still undergo this procedure?

How soon can I return to work after the procedure at HCG?

Does HCG support cashless insurance for this procedure?

Our Expert Doctors

(Prof.) Dr. Narendra Hiregoudar

Consultant Interventional Cardiology

Interventional Cardiology,

HCG Suchirayu Hospital, Hubli,