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Coronary Angiography with Cardiac Catheterization (Right Coronary Artery)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This procedure involves threading a thin tube through your blood vessels to examine the right side of your heart and coronary arteries. It helps assess blood flow, detect blockages, or guide treatment for heart conditions.

Quick summary

["This test can diagnose heart disease, evaluate heart function, or plan treatments like angioplasty or stent placement."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78930-5
Short code
Right heart cath performed
Synonyms
Right heart cath performed
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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

What to Expect Before the Procedure

You’ll likely receive a local anesthetic to numb the insertion site (usually in your arm, groin, or neck). You may be given a sedative to relax. Do not eat or drink anything for 6–12 hours before the procedure. Inform your doctor about all medications, allergies, or recent illnesses.

During the Procedure

A catheter (thin tube) is inserted into a blood vessel, guided to the right side of your heart. Contrast dye is injected to visualize blood flow on X-ray images. The procedure usually takes 1–3 hours and may involve brief discomfort or pressure at the insertion site.

Aftercare and Recovery

You’ll be monitored closely in a recovery room for a few hours. Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours. Monitor your insertion site for signs of bleeding or infection (e.g., redness, swelling, fever). Follow your doctor’s instructions for activity restrictions and medication.

Risks and Complications

Possible risks include bleeding, infection, or allergic reactions to contrast dye. Rarely, complications like heart rhythm issues or vessel damage may occur. Your doctor will discuss risks tailored to your health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Right Heart Cath

Frequently asked questions

Why was I scheduled for this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or a known heart condition. It may also be used to plan surgery or evaluate abnormal heart sounds or rhythms.
Will I feel pain during the procedure?
You may feel slight pressure or discomfort at the insertion site, but local anesthesia numbs the area. You’ll likely feel sedation, so you may not notice pain during the procedure itself.
How long will I need to rest after the procedure?
You’ll need to rest for a few hours in recovery before going home. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 24–48 hours, as recommended by your doctor.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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