Outpatient Catheterization
At the Virginia Heart Institute, cardiac catheterization is performed on an outpatient basis. The Institute, an outpatient hospital, is equipped with an operating room, recovery area and emergency equipment which meet all safety and health requirements. One physician, three nurses, and a technician are on hand to care for you. On the morning of your catheterization, you will be asked to arrive at the Institute at 8 A.M. and should be ready to return home by early afternoon.

Decreased Health Costs
The Virginia Heart Institute introduced outpatient catheterization in 1972 with one of the greatest benefits being a savings in health care costs. You will not have to pay for costly hospitalization, and hospital beds can be reserved for more seriously ill patients. Outpatient catheterization is covered by most major group insurance plans. Personnel at the Institute can answer your specific questions concerning coverage.

Cardiac Catheterization" Why?
Cardiac catheterization allows the physician to look at the blood vessels that supply the heart. He can see if there is an obstruction to blood flow or a narrowed vessel. He also gathers information concerning the blood pressure in the four chambers of the heart, the functioning of the heart valves, and the overall pumping ability of the heart.

1. On the morning of your catheterization, you may have a light breakfast (toast, juice, coffee).
2. Take your regular medications on schedule.
3. Please arrive at the Institute at 8 A.M.
4. You will be taken into an examining room where your vital signs will be checked and an ECG will be done. Be able to list your current medications, any allergies to medications, iodine, or seafood.
5. Patches will be applied to your shoulders and chest so your heart beat can be monitored during the catheterization.
6. You will not receive any tranquilizers or sedatives because it is important for you to be alert during the procedure.
7. You will be given a gown to wear and asked to empty your bladder. Dentures, glasses and watches may be worn during the procedure.
8. You will now be ready to go to the catheterization lab.

The Test Itself
Afterwards, you will go to the recovery room where you will be observed for one or two hours. Periodic monitoring of your ECG and blood pressure will be made. You will be monitored also for any bleeding or complications. Your family will be allowed to sit with you during this time. After the observation period, the doctor will discuss the test results and allow you to return home.

Discharge Instructions

1. Remove pressure dressing in 24 hours and leave uncovered.
2. Steri-strips should remain on incision until they fall off.
3. Keep incision dry - cover with plastic wrap when showering for 1 week.
4. Report redness, fever, drainage or excessive bleeding.
5. Avoid heavy lifting with right arm for 1 week, but use it for normal activities.
6. You may take Tylenol for incisional pain, if necessary.
7. Return in one week for incision check
8. Please call the Institute by 8:00 AM the following morning to let us know how you are doing. (804) 359-9265, 1-800468-1030 or after hours at 1-888-3014038