A minimally invasive procedure to treat blockages in the arteries of the heart. Cardiac catheterization is a test or treatment for certain heart or blood vessel problems, such as clogged arteries, heart valve narrowing or leakage, or weakened hearts. It uses a thin, hollow tube called a catheter. The tube is guided through a blood vessel to the heart. Cardiac catheterization gives important details about the heart muscle, heart valves and blood vessels in the heart.

During the procedure, the pressures in the heart can be measured or treatments such opening a narrowed artery can be performed. Usually, you are awake during cardiac catheterization but given medicines to help you relax. The majority of patients go home the same day.