Cardiac Catheterization Lab
A catheterization is a procedure where the cardiologist inserts a small
tube into the artery of an arm or leg. The device allows for X-ray pictures
of the blood vessels, in addition to measurements of the heart’s
key vital signs.
Coronary angiography involves advancing catheters through arteries usually
at wrist or groin to the heart. A dye is then injected into the arteries,
allowing the physicians to see any blockages of the arteries that may
benefit from opening up using balloon tipped catheters and stents.
Cardiac defibrillator and permanent / resynchronization pacemaker placements
are minimally invasive procedures. In them, a watch-sized generator is
placed under the skin. Wires are advanced through the vein under the collarbone
to the heart’s right upper and lower chambers. Pacemakers stimulate
the heart to prevent slow heart rates.
Cardiac defibrillators deliver a small electric shock to stop life-threatening
arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
Loop recorders are small devices placed under the skin at the left side
of the chest. They can diagnose heart ailments by recording heart rhythms
for months at a time.
Most cardiac services require a physician's referral. If you need help
finding a physician, visit our
physician finder online or call
(530) 676-0777 or
(916) 933-3210.