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Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac Catheterization

In our state-of-the-art Lima Memorial Cath Lab, we use the latest technologies to diagnose and, when necessary, clear blockages with the least invasive procedures possible. This could include drug-coated stents, angioplasties or radiation. The success rate and growth of our Cath Lab is a direct result of the experienced staff and care offered to our patients.

What is a cardiac catheterization?

A cardiac catheterization is performed by inserting a fiber-thin catheter into the groin area and feeding it up toward the heart, where cardiologists can insert dyes into the coronary arteries to find and often clear away potentially life-threatening blockages.

The heart images produced using catheterization help cardiologists diagnose whether you have disease in your coronary arteries and, if so, pinpoint the size and location of plaque that may have built up.  This generally determines whether you need bypass surgery or angioplasty (widening of the arteries).

There are two types of cardiac catheterization procedures:

  • Diagnostic procedures verify the extent of heart disease and help cardiologists determine the most effective type of treatment.
  • Interventional catheterizations start with a diagnostic catheterization, but then continue with procedures that can correct the problem, usually by opening up a clogged artery.

To contact Lima Memorial Heart and Vascular Institute or learn more about cardiac catheterization, call 419-224-5915.

Or, you can learn more about the Cardiology Department at Lima Memorial Heart and Vascular Institute.

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