Intra

Coronary angiography identifies the presence, extent and location of coronary artery narrowings, due to plaque build-up. Other tests performed during the coronary angiogram include measuring pressures within the heart chambers, checking function of some of the valves and checking how well the main pumping chamber (left ventricle) is working.

Where a narrowing is identified in a coronary artery during a coronary angiogram, the cardiologist may treat the lesion using a stent (fine mesh tube). This is known as Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI).

Stents
Drug eluting, permanent stents are the most frequently inserted stents with excellent results achieved over years. These stents are coated with a medication to prevent or substantially reduce the chance of re-narrowing and the need for repeat treatment.