Angiography is a procedure that allows doctors to look at blood vessels in great detail using X-rays. If the doctors identify a narrowed portion (stenosis) of a blood vessel during the angiography procedure, they may stretch or widen it straightaway using a procedure called an angioplasty.
Coronary angiography and angioplasty may be done soon after a heart attack, or if you have angina. If you have chest pain on exertion and if your Tread Mill Test is Positive you are likely to be referred for a coronary angiography to find more about the severity and extent of your heart disease.
While having angiography it is possible that you will go on to have an angioplasty as part of the same procedure. Angioplasty is a treatment where a metal mesh tube (stent) is used to open a narrowed or blocked artery and increase blood flow to the heart muscle. Widening a narrowed artery results in fewer angina symptoms and a better quality of life.
