What is Interventional Cardiac Catheterization?
Cardiac catheterization, or cardiac cath, is a diagnostic procedure that involves puncturing an artery and / or vein, usually located in the groin, so that a small, long, flexible tube (catheter) can be guided into the heart and major vessels around the heart to gather information about how the heart is working. The catheter is moved through the heart with the aid of fluoroscopy (X-ray machine).
Interventional cardiac catheterization is a type of cardiac cath where therapeutic treatments can be performed using specialized catheters. This is usually performed to help heart problems.
These specialized catheters include balloon catheters that can open narrowed vessels and valves, and other specialized catheters that can deploy devices to close extra vessels or certain "holes" in the heart.
Why is Interventional Cardiac Catheterization Done?
With cardiac catheterization, pressure measurements and blood samples can be obtained from the various cardiac chambers and blood vessels around the heart, allowing calculations of detailed information about the heart's function.
X-ray dye can also be injected through the catheters, giving pictures of structures in and around the heart.
Interventional catheterization involves many different therapies for varied heart problems. It is helpful in fixing certain heart problems in children, and in some cases, be used in place of a surgery, or extend time until a surgery is needed.
How is Interventional Cardiac Catheterization Done?
Before the cardiac catheterization procedure, your child will typically have several tests such as a chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (EKG), and blood work. These may be completed either the day before—during a pre-procedure visit—or on the morning of the procedure. During the pre-procedure visit, your child will be examined, and vital signs will be taken.
On the day of the procedure, your child may receive medication to help them relax or become sleepy. The procedure is done by an interventional pediatric cardiologist, assisted by other doctors, nurses and radiology technicians. A cardiac anesthesiologist is also involved to ensure your child’s comfort and safety.
After the procedure, your child will be monitored in the recovery room for a few hours. Depending on the complexity of the intervention and your child’s recovery, they may need extended observation or an overnight stay. While sedation is used to minimize discomfort, your child may experience mild soreness or bruising at the catheter insertion site, typically in the groin. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol®.
What are the Risks of Interventional Cardiac Catheterization?
Cardiac catheterization is generally considered low risk, with minor complications occurring in less than 5% of cases. The success and necessity of the procedure depend on your child’s specific heart condition and are carefully evaluated by the cardiology team. Each procedure is tailored to the individual patient, and your child’s cardiologist will discuss expected outcomes and any potential risks with you in detail.
