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Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory
At Orlando Heart and Vascular, our Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat a variety of heart conditions. Our experienced team of interventional cardiologists and healthcare professionals performs minimally invasive procedures to evaluate and manage cardiovascular issues, ensuring the highest level of care for our patients.
What is a Cath Lab?
A Cath Lab is a specialized area in the hospital where cardiologists perform minimally invasive diagnostic and interventional procedures on the heart and blood vessels. These procedures often involve using a thin, flexible tube called a catheter that is inserted through blood vessels and guided to the heart to examine how well it’s functioning.
Why is the Cath Lab Important?
The Cath Lab is essential for diagnosing and treating heart diseases without the need for open-heart surgery. These procedures help our cardiologists gather critical information about the heart’s blood supply, valves, and chambers, enabling them to perform life-saving interventions like opening blocked arteries, repairing damaged valves, or placing stents.
Preparation
Before your procedure, your healthcare provider will review your medical history and perform any necessary pre-procedure tests. You may be asked to fast for several hours before the procedure.
The Procedure
During the procedure, you will be given a mild sedative to help you relax. The doctor will insert a catheter through a blood vessel (usually in the wrist or groin) and guide it to the heart using X-ray imaging. Depending on the procedure, your doctor may inject dye for imaging, open a blocked artery, or place a stent.
Recovery
After the procedure, you will be monitored for a few hours. Most patients can go home the same day, but your healthcare provider will let you know if you need to stay overnight.
Benefits of Cath Lab Procedures
Cath Lab procedures offer numerous benefits compared to traditional surgery:
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Minimally Invasive: Procedures are performed using small incisions, which reduces recovery time, risk of infection, and overall patient discomfort.
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Faster Recovery: Most patients are able to return home the same day or within 24 to 48 hours.
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Accurate Diagnosis: The advanced imaging technologies used in the Cath Lab provide highly accurate and detailed information about the heart’s condition.
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Life-Saving Interventions: Procedures like angioplasty and stent placement can restore blood flow to the heart, preventing heart attacks or further damage to the heart muscle.
When is a Cath Lab Procedure Necessary?
Your cardiologist may recommend a Cath Lab procedure if:
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You are experiencing symptoms of coronary artery disease, such as chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or fatigue.
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Tests have shown you have blockages in your coronary arteries.
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You’ve had a heart attack, and immediate intervention is needed to restore blood flow to the heart.
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You have a heart valve problem or structural heart disease that needs repair.
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You need a follow-up to monitor a previously placed stent or assess other heart conditions.