What does cardiac catheterization primarily evaluate?

Cardiac catheterization primarily evaluates coronary artery patency, which is essential for diagnosing and managing coronary artery disease. This procedure involves threading a thin, flexible tube through blood vessels to the heart, allowing for direct visualization of the coronary arteries through angiography. By assessing the patency of these arteries, healthcare providers can identify blockages, the severity of those blockages, and any areas of the heart that may be suffering from reduced blood flow.

While cardiac catheterization can provide some information related to heart valves, heart rhythm, and heart rate variability, its main purpose focuses on the coronary arteries. The ability to detect and assess issues like atherosclerosis or other obstructive conditions makes it a critical tool in cardiology for determining the need for interventions like angioplasty or stenting. Understanding the health of the coronary arteries is vital for preventing heart attacks and managing overall cardiovascular health.