Invasive Tests and Procedures

Blood testing may include the following:
Cardiac enzymes (including troponin and creatine kinase), C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, homocysteine, lipoproteins, triglycerides, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and prothrombin.

 

Reason for Test

• Confirms that a heart attack has occurred and determines extent of damage.
  
      Assesses future risk for coronary artery disease.
  
      Provides information on the time it takes for the blood to clot.
  
     

Blood testing may include the following:
Cardiac enzymes (including troponin and creatine kinase), C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, homocysteine, lipoproteins, triglycerides, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and prothrombin.

 

Reason for Test

• Confirms that a heart attack has occurred and determines extent of damage.
  
      Assesses future risk for coronary artery disease.
  
      Provides information on the time it takes for the blood to clot.
  
     

What the Test Does
Examines the inside of your heart's blood vessels using special X-rays called angiograms (View an animation of an an angiogram).  Dye visible by X-ray is injected into blood vessels using a thin hollow tube called a catheter. Takes 2-3 hours. View an illustration of a cardiac catheterization.

Reason for Test

• One of the most useful and accurate tools in diagnosing cardiovascular problems.
• Can detect where arteries are narrowed or blocked.
• Can measure blood pressure within the heart and oxygen in the blood.
• Can evaluate heart muscle function.
• Helps determine best course of treatment.