Coronary angiography is an X-ray examination of the blood vessels or chambers of the heart. A very small tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel in your upper thigh (groin area) or arm. The tip of the tube is positioned either in the heart or at the beginning of the arteries supplying the heart, and a special fluid (called a contrast medium or dye) is injected. This fluid is visible by X-ray, and the pictures that are obtained are called angiograms.

Another name for this test is coronary arteriography.

What are the pros and cons of angiography?

The pros and cons of coronary arteriography vary for every patient. The physician and patient should discuss the specific situation. Often an angiogram is necessary before deciding whether coronary disease needs more treatment.

Related AHA publications:

• Your Coronary Catheterization brochure
• "What Is a Coronary Angiogram?" in Answers By Heart kit