Cardiac Catheterization Orifice Area Measurement
This test measures the size of openings (orifices) in your heart’s catheters after a cardiac catheterization procedure. It helps evaluate how well blood flows through these openings post-procedure.
["Assessing catheter orifice function after heart procedures to ensure proper blood flow and device placement."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80230-6
- Short code
- Orifice area AV Cardiac Cath
- Synonyms
- Orifice area AV Cardiac Cath
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cardiac-catheterization
- CPT
- 82378
- SNOMED
- 394995008
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you’ve recently had a cardiac catheterization to check the function of the catheter’s openings. It’s particularly useful after procedures like balloon angioplasty or stent placement to ensure the heart’s valves or openings remain unobstructed.
What to Expect During the Procedure
You’ll likely receive sedation before the test. A catheter will be inserted into a blood vessel, guided to the heart, and small openings in the catheter will be measured using imaging techniques. The procedure is usually brief and painless, though you may feel mild discomfort during insertion.
Preparation and Recovery
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a short time before the procedure. Afterward, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity for a few hours. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding any restrictions on diet, movement, or medications.
What the Results Mean
Results are qualitative and compare the measured orifice sizes to expected values for your procedure. Abnormal findings may indicate blockages, improper placement, or other complications that require further medical evaluation or intervention.
Reference range
Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for confirming that catheters are functioning correctly after placement. Proper orifice size ensures optimal blood flow and reduces the risk of complications such as clotting, leakage, or improper device positioning. It helps guide follow-up care and adjustments if needed.
Short name
Cardiac Cath Orifice Assessment
Frequently asked questions
Will I need to prepare for this test at home?
How long will it take to get my results?
Can this test detect long-term heart complications?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy