Technique and catheters

Cardiol Clin. 2009 Aug;27(3):417-32. doi: 10.1016/j.ccl.2009.04.005.

Abstract

This article reviews the current technique of coronary angiography, focusing on the choice of arterial access site; navigation from the arterial access site to the ascending thoracic aorta; cannulation of the native coronary arteries in their normal, variant, and anomalous locations; and cannulation of saphenous vein and arterial graft conduits. The authors conclude that, although no didactic training can substitute for the hands-on apprenticeship obtained during general cardiology and interventional cardiology fellowships, the intellectual elements fundamental to coronary angiography outlined here will result in a more efficient, effective, and safe procedure for patients.

MeSH terms

  • Cardiac Catheterization / instrumentation
  • Cardiac Catheterization / methods*
  • Coronary Angiography / methods*
  • Coronary Artery Bypass
  • Coronary Vessel Anomalies / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Vessels / anatomy & histology
  • Femoral Artery
  • Humans
  • Radial Artery