Left heart ventricular angiography is a procedure to look at the left side of the heart and, sometimes, the coronary arteries.

This test is done to detect:

• A clot in the heart
• Abnormalities of the left heart valves
• An aneurysm of the heart wall
• Areas of the heart that are not contracting normally
• Blood flow problems on the left side of the heart
• Heart-related blockages
• The overall pump function of the heart

Before the test, you will be given medicine to help you relax. You will be awake and able to follow instructions during the test.

An intravenous line is placed in your arm. The health care provider cleans and numbs an area on your arm or groin. A cardiologist makes a small cut in the area, and inserts a thin flexible tube (catheter) into an artery. Using x-rays as a guide, the doctor carefully moves the thin tube (catheter) into your heart.

When the tube is in place, dye is injected through it. The dye flows through the blood vessels, making them easier to see. X-rays are taken as the dye moves through the blood vessels. These x-ray pictures create a "movie" of the left ventricle as it contracts rhythmically.

The procedure may last from 1 to several hours.

You will be told not to eat or drink for 6 - 8 hours before the test. The procedure takes place in the hospital. Some people may need to stay in the hospital the night before the test.

A health care provider will explain the procedure and its risks. You must sign a consent form for the procedure.

You may feel pressure when the catheter is inserted. Occasionally, a flushing sensation occurs when the dye is injected.