Pre-vascular catheterization instructions

13 Aug Pre-vascular catheterization instructions

Vascular catheterization is a therapeutic or diagnostic procedure aimed at detecting heart-related health issues or treating blocked arteries in the heart. It involves using a thin, flexible scope inserted through a blood vessel, typically in the groin or wrist, to reach the heart and perform necessary procedures. Before undergoing vascular catheterization catheterization, there are several preparations and instructions outlined by Dr. Amir Malkawi, a vascular surgery consultant, as follows

General instructions and tips before Vascular catheterization

There are a set of instructions that Dr. Amir Malkawi requests from the affected person before performing a heart catheterization procedure. The instructions before the Vascular catheterization procedure include the following:

• Inform the doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. The doctor may ask you to discontinue certain medications, such as blood thinners, so it’s important to inform them about all medications used. Avoid stopping any medications without consulting the doctor.
• Notify the doctor of any allergies you have to any substances or medications.
• Fast from food and drink, except water, for approximately 6-8 hours before the procedure. If you have diabetes, coordinate with your doctor to adjust the dosage of medication or insulin to avoid fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
• Refrain from taking any vitamin supplements or herbal supplements on the day of the procedure.
• You may shower on the day of the procedure, but avoid applying any cosmetics, perfumes, or creams after showering.
• The doctor may advise refraining from taking diuretic medications on the day of the procedure if you are using them.
• The doctor may also advise refraining from taking diabetes medications on the day of the procedure. If using insulin, the dose will be adjusted at the hospital to administer the appropriate amount.
• Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing to facilitate wearing hospital garments for the procedure.
• Avoid wearing accessories and jewelry on the day of the procedure.
• Undergo necessary diagnostic tests as required by the doctor.
• Prepare all your matters related to the procedure, including bringing your official documents, personal identification, health insurance card, and any other personal equipment you may need.

Pre-vascular catheterization
tests and examinations

Before undergoing vascular catheterization, the doctor typically requests a series of diagnostic tests to evaluate the health condition of the patient. These tests may include:

• Blood tests: Aimed at assessing liver and kidney function, red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin levels, and searching for any signs of health issues.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Used to evaluate the severity of heart problems and detect the structure and functions of the heart.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan: To detect the integrity of heart valves and narrowing in the coronary arteries.
• Chest X-ray: To evaluate the health of organs in the chest area, such as the lungs, heart, and blood vessels.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): To detect heart function or the presence of arrhythmias, contributing to the identification of heart attacks and other heart problems.
• Echocardiogram: To evaluate heart function and structure.
• Stress test: Which reveals the efficiency of heart function during physical exertion.

Read More: WHAT ARE THE VARICOSE VEINS OF PREGNANCY?

Instructions in the operating room

There are several instructions and preparations carried out in the operating room before commencing with Vascular catheterization, including the following:

• Signing a consent form for the procedure and acknowledging all associated matters.
• Emptying the bladder using the restroom directly before the procedure.
• Wearing sterile surgical garments dedicated for the procedure.
• Removing body hair at the catheter insertion site, typically done by the nursing team.
• Attaching devices to monitor heart rate and blood pressure.
• Administering a sedative medication, followed by anesthesia based on the patient’s health condition to begin the procedure.

Health conditions necessitating Vascular
catheterization

There are several health problems that may require Vascular catheterization, including:

• Coronary artery disease.
• Congenital heart defects.
• Cardiomyopathy.
• Heart failure.
• Heart valve diseases.
• Symptoms indicating a potential heart problem include:
  • Dizziness.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Chest pain or angina.
  • Severe and unexplained fatigue.

Risks

Vascular catheterization is generally a common and safe procedure; however, like any other procedure, it may involve some risks in rare cases, including:

• Allergic reactions to medications or imaging dyes.
• Infection.
• Arrhythmia.
• Severe bleeding.
• Low blood pressure.
• Chest pain.
• Damage to coronary arteries.

Lastly, it is crucial to seek guidance from a skilled and competent doctor for Vascular catheterization to achieve the desired benefits and minimize the risk of side effects or serious complications. Therefore, do not hesitate to visit Dr. Amir Malkawi’s clinic for expert advice.

References:

[1] – https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cardiac-catheterization/about/pac-20384695 

[2] – https://www.verywellhealth.com/cardiac-catheterization-and-angiography-1745251 

[3] – https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/heart/preparing.html 

[4] – https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/cardiac-catheterization/preparing 

[5]-https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/cardiac-catheterization 

[6] – https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/16832-cardiac-catheterization