In these advanced tests, a tiny tube called a catheter is inserted into a large artery in the groin or wrist and carefully routed into the vessels of the heart. Cardiac catheterization allows cardiologists to actually see inside the arteries of the heart to identify blockages and their severity, and to determine appropriate treatment.

In the cath labs at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital cardiologists use sophisticated procedures to treat diseased arteries. These procedures include:

• Angioplasty — The use of a balloon-like device attached to the end of the catheter that enlarges blocked blood vessels to allow the blood to flow more freely.
• Atherectomy — The use of a catheter that has a cone with a tiny blade set inside to remove plaque buildup.
• Stenting — A tiny tube-like device is placed inside the artery to increase blood flow and prevent blockage.