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Cardiac catheterization, or cath, is performed to determine how well your heart works, identifies problems and allows for procedures to open blocked arteries. The procedure is conducted at the hospital and identifies many diseases of the valves, arteries or the heart muscle.
A catheter is a thin hollow tube that is inserted into a blood vessel leading to the heart. Your physician may do any of the following during the cath:
As preparation for the cardiac catherization, you will need to follow your doctor’s instructions:
The procedure lasts about an hour. Afterward you will be taken to a recovery room for a few hours. Upon release from the hospital, you will be given written instructions on home care for your cath site.
Follow the doctor’s instructions. However, most people can resume normal activities the day after your cath procedure.