Catheter Placement During a Cardiac Catheterization

Picture of a catheter placed in a coronary artery

Cardiac catheterization is done using a thin, soft tube called a catheter. A doctor inserts the catheter into a blood vessel, typically in the groin area, using a special needle. The doctor then slowly guides the catheter through blood vessels toward the heart. The catheter tip is moved into various positions in the heart's chambers and vessels (coronary arteries).

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerRakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Specialist Medical ReviewerGeorge Philippides, MD - Cardiology
Last RevisedJuly 20, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: July 20, 2011
Medical Review: Rakesh K. Pai, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
George Philippides, MD - Cardiology

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