Coronary Angiogram

Chest pain and shortness of breath are amongst symptoms that can signal coronary artery disease, which affects more than 20 million U.S. adults. A coronary angiogram can help determine if coronary artery disease is causing your symptoms. This minimally invasive test shows whether your coronary arteries are blocked or narrowed, informing the next steps for your heart care.

At Westchester Medical Center, the flagship of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, our heart specialists perform thousands of angiograms every year. From advanced technology to collaborative expertise, we provide effective diagnostics with compassion and precision.

Doctor listening to patient's heartbeat during visit

A coronary angiogram is a specialized X-ray exam that allows doctors to see the blood flow through your coronary arteries.

It is used to detect blockages or narrowing in the arteries that supply blood to your heart. Your cardiologist may recommend this test if you have symptoms of coronary artery disease, abnormal stress test results, or as a follow-up after a heart event. A coronary angiogram can also help diagnose conditions such as coronary artery disease, angina, and increased heart attack risk.

What to Know About Your Coronary Angiogram

Here’s what to expect before, during, and after your coronary angiogram.

How to Prepare

Your provider will recommend any medications you should stop or adjust prior to your coronary angiogram, and the nurses in the cardiac catheterization laboratory will also call you the night before to discuss arrival time and medications. Otherwise, general steps to prepare include:

Do not eat or drink for at least six hours before the test.
Wear comfortable clothing and leave jewelry at home.
Avoid lotions, perfumes, or oils on your chest or arms the day of the test.

What to Expect During the Coronary Angiogram

A coronary angiogram is typically done in a cardiac catheterization lab by one of our interventional cardiologists. You may receive a sedative to help you relax. The test usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes:

Your interventional cardiologist will apply a local anesthetic around the area where the catheter will be inserted (usually the wrist or groin).
The cardiologist inserts a thin tube (catheter) and threads it through your blood vessels to the coronary arteries.
A contrast dye is injected to highlight your arteries on X-ray images.

The images are reviewed in real time to identify any blockages.

What to Expect Afterwards

Following your coronary angiogram, you may experience mild soreness or bruising at the insertion site. You’ll stay in a recovery area for monitoring, usually for a few hours. Most patients go home the same day.

Your provider will discuss the results with you and any potential next steps, if needed. This may include a treatment plan focused on lifestyle changes, medications, or an interventional treatment. Your provider will also discuss any needed follow-up care, including visits with your cardiologist or a cardiac rehabilitation program.