A diagnostic cardiac catheterization is a non-surgical procedure used to diagnose coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, and heart muscle or structural problems. It shows if your heart is pumping normally and the blood is flowing correctly if you were born with any heart problems, if the blood vessels in your heart are clogged.

The procedure usually takes an hour or less. You will remain awake during the procedure, which allows you and the team to communicate as needed. A sheath is inserted into your groin or arm after local anesthetic is given. Through the sheath, a catheter is inserted and gently guided toward the heart. The physician watches the catheter's movement on video monitors. You shouldn't feel the catheter moving through your body and into your heart.

Dye is injected through the catheter and X-rays are taken of the heart. This allows the physician to directly visualize the arteries of the heart and identify any blockages that have either caused or have the potential to cause significant problems in the future.

After the catheterization is finished, the catheter is removed, then the sheath. If the sheath was in your arm, the site may be closed with stitches. If the sheath was in your groin, pressure may be applied to stop any bleeding or a "plug" or pressure device may be applied on the site.

In most cases, this is a same-day procedure, not requiring an overnight stay in the hospital. You are usually observed and released home within 2 to 4 hours after the procedure.