Cardiology• Updated 21 October 2026
Coronary Angiography
A procedure using dye and X-rays to see the heart's arteries and find blockages.
Results: Same day
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To find narrowed or blocked coronary arteries and plan stents or bypass.
What It Measures
The arteries supplying the heart.
Preparation
Fast for several hours; ask about blood thinners and diabetes medicines.
Overview
A thin tube is passed through an artery in the wrist or groin to the heart.
If a blockage is found, a stent may be placed in the same procedure (angioplasty).
What It Measures
Coronary arteries
Location and severity of narrowing.
How It's Performed
- 01
Preparation
Local anaesthetic at the wrist or groin.
- 02
Procedure
Dye is injected while X-ray pictures are taken.
- 03
Recovery
Pressure on the puncture site; rest for a few hours.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Coronary Artery Disease | CAD(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Angiography(opens in a new tab) · NHS