Cardiac Catheterization
Diagnostic and therapeutic cardiac catheterization performed at our in-office procedure center — with the same precision as a hospital cath lab.
What Is Cardiac Catheterization?
Cardiac catheterization is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is guided through a blood vessel to the heart to diagnose and treat heart and coronary artery conditions. It allows Dr. Merwin Richard to measure pressures, inject contrast dye to visualize the coronary arteries, and identify blockages with hospital-level accuracy.
At Advanced Medical Group, cardiac catheterization is performed in our fully equipped in-office procedure center — the same technology and capability as a hospital cath lab, but in a private, physician-owned facility with shorter wait times, lower cost and same-day discharge for most patients.
Key Facts
How Cardiac Catheterization Works
Preparation
You are asked to fast beforehand. The access site — usually the wrist or groin — is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
Catheter Guided to the Heart
A thin catheter is gently guided through a blood vessel to the heart under real-time X-ray guidance.
Imaging & Measurements
Contrast dye is injected to visualize the coronary arteries; pressures and heart function are measured.
Treatment if Needed
If a blockage is found, angioplasty and stent placement can be performed in the same session.
Same-Day Discharge
A short monitored rest follows. Most patients go home the same day.
Why It Is Performed
Evaluate Coronary Arteries
Contrast dye and imaging reveal narrowing or blockages in the arteries that supply the heart muscle.
Diagnose Chest Pain
Helps identify the cause of chest pain, shortness of breath or abnormal stress test results.
Same-Session Treatment
If a blockage is found, angioplasty and stenting can often be performed in the same procedure.
What to Expect at Our Vascular Procedure Center
Consultation
Dr. Richard reviews your symptoms, test results and history to confirm catheterization is appropriate.
Preparation
Fasting beforehand as instructed. Access site cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia.
The Procedure
Catheter guided to the heart under X-ray; imaging and measurements taken. Treatment performed if needed.
Recovery
Short monitored rest. Most patients go home the same day.
Follow-Up
Dr. Richard reviews the findings and guides ongoing cardiac care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our in-office procedure center is a fully equipped interventional suite with the same technology and safety standards as a hospital cath lab, led by an experienced interventional cardiologist.
No. It is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation as needed. Most patients feel only pressure at the access site and a brief warm sensation from the contrast dye.
Often, yes. If a blockage is found and you are a suitable candidate, angioplasty and stent placement can be performed in the same session.
No. Most patients are discharged the same day after a short monitored rest.
Yes — cardiac catheterization is covered by Medicare and most major commercial plans when medically indicated. Our team verifies coverage before your visit.
Ready to take the next step?
Schedule a consultation at our North Bergen Vascular Procedure Center. Same-day appointments available.