coronary angiography
An invasive imaging procedure using contrast dye to visualize coronary arteries and identify stenoses.
Full Definition
Coronary angiography is the gold standard invasive diagnostic procedure for evaluating coronary artery disease. It involves cardiac catheterization with injection of iodinated contrast material to visualize the coronary arteries under fluoroscopy. The procedure can identify the location, severity, and morphology of coronary stenoses, guiding decisions about revascularization strategies. While primarily diagnostic, it can be coupled with therapeutic interventions such as percutaneous coronary intervention. In cardiovascular prevention, it may be considered in high-risk patients or those with abnormal non-invasive testing.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from non-invasive coronary CT angiography.
In Context
- "Coronary angiography revealed a 90% stenosis in the proximal left anterior descending artery requiring urgent intervention." — Cardiac catheterization report