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Coronary angiography

A Coronary angiography is a interventional test of the heart arteries. It shows blockages in the heart arteries; stenting (angioplasty) may follow. Typical effective dose 5 to 10 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

What it shows

Blockages in the heart arteries; stenting (angioplasty) may follow.

Why it is done

Heart attack, unstable chest pain, abnormal stress test.

Preparation

Blood tests for clotting are usually needed; blood thinners may need to be paused only on your doctor's advice. Fasting for a few hours is common.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 5 to 10 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

30 to 60 minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Sample type

Interventional

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Related conditions

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Where to get this near you

Care near you

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Common questions

What does a coronary angiogram show?
Blockages in the heart arteries; stenting (angioplasty) may follow.

Why is a coronary angiogram done?
Heart attack, unstable chest pain, abnormal stress test.

How do I prepare for a coronary angiogram?
Blood tests for clotting are usually needed; blood thinners may need to be paused only on your doctor's advice. Fasting for a few hours is common.

Does a coronary angiogram use radiation?
Typical effective dose 5 to 10 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long does a coronary angiogram take?
30 to 60 minutes

Why is Coronary angiography done?
Heart attack, unstable chest pain, abnormal stress test.

How do I prepare for Coronary angiography?
Blood tests for clotting are usually needed; blood thinners may need to be paused only on your doctor's advice. Fasting for a few hours is common.

Is Coronary angiography safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 5 to 10 mSv, similar to about 2 to 3 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call102