What Is a Cardiac Catheterisation Laboratory and When Is It Used?

What is a cardiac catheterisation laboratory?

A cardiac catheterisation laboratory — commonly called a cath lab — is a specialised procedural suite equipped to diagnose and treat heart conditions using catheter-based techniques. A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is guided through a blood vessel to the heart, allowing clinicians to visualise coronary arteries, measure pressures, and perform interventions such as angioplasty or stenting.

Lilavati International in Mumbai operates a dedicated cardiac catheterisation laboratory as part of its quaternary-care cardiology programme at Bandra West, Mumbai — 400050. The cath lab is supported by round-the-clock access to CT, MRI, ultrasound, and diagnostic laboratory services, and is integrated with the hospital's cardiac emergency response infrastructure.

What is a cardiac catheterisation lab used for?

The cath lab serves both diagnostic and interventional purposes. Clinicians use it to identify blockages, assess heart function, and deliver targeted treatment — often in a single session.

• Coronary angiography — injects contrast dye to visualise coronary artery blockages or narrowing
• Angioplasty and stenting — opens blocked arteries using a balloon catheter and places a stent to keep the artery open
• Haemodynamic assessment — measures blood pressure and oxygen levels inside the heart chambers
• Electrophysiology studies — maps abnormal electrical pathways causing arrhythmias
• Valvuloplasty — uses a balloon to open narrowed heart valves
• Transcatheter valve procedures — delivers replacement valves without open surgery
• Intra-aortic balloon pump insertion — provides mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic shock

What conditions require a cardiac cath lab?

A cardiologist may recommend cath lab evaluation or intervention for a range of cardiac conditions. The decision is based on clinical presentation, non-invasive test results, and the urgency of the situation.

What happens during a cardiac catheterisation procedure?

Understanding the procedure step by step can help reduce anxiety. Most cath lab procedures follow a structured sequence and are performed under local anaesthesia with sedation — patients are typically awake but relaxed throughout.

1. Preparation — An intravenous line is placed. The access site (usually the wrist or groin) is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic.
2. Sheath insertion — A small introducer sheath is placed into the artery to provide a stable entry point for the catheter.
3. Catheter advancement — The catheter is guided through the artery to the heart under continuous X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance.
4. Contrast injection and imaging — Contrast dye is injected so coronary arteries appear clearly on the imaging screen.
5. Intervention (if required) — If a blockage is found and the clinical team decides to proceed, angioplasty and stenting may be performed in the same session.
6. Closure and recovery — The catheter is removed, the access site is closed, and the patient is moved to a monitored recovery area.

How do I prepare for a cardiac catheterisation?

Preparation instructions are provided by your cardiologist and may vary depending on whether the procedure is elective or urgent. The following are general guidance points — always follow the specific instructions given by your clinical team.

• Fasting — You will typically be asked to fast for 4–6 hours before the procedure. Water restrictions will be specified by your team.
• Medications — Inform your doctor of all current medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and supplements. Some may need to be paused.
• Allergy history — Report any known allergy to contrast dye, iodine, or shellfish.
• Kidney function — Blood tests including creatinine are usually checked before the procedure, as contrast dye is processed by the kidneys.
• Clothing and valuables — Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Leave jewellery and valuables at home.
• Escort — Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you and take you home after the procedure.

When should you seek urgent cardiac catheterisation?

Some situations require immediate emergency cath lab assessment and should not be managed with a routine outpatient appointment. Seek emergency care without delay if you experience any of the following:

• Chest pain or pressure lasting more than 15 minutes, especially at rest
• Chest pain radiating to the jaw, left arm, or back
• Sudden shortness of breath accompanied by sweating or nausea
• Loss of consciousness or near-fainting with chest discomfort
• A confirmed or suspected heart attack on an ECG or troponin test

A cardiologist may also recommend an elective (planned) cath lab procedure if:

• A stress test or CT coronary angiogram shows significant coronary artery narrowing
• Angina symptoms persist despite optimal medical therapy for more than 4 weeks
• Echocardiography reveals severe valvular disease requiring further assessment
• Pre-operative cardiac evaluation is required before major non-cardiac surgery

Lilavati International's emergency department at Bandra West, Mumbai is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week including public holidays. No appointment is required for emergency cardiac care. Emergency contact: 022-69318063 / 64. Ambulance: +91 97692 50010.

How does Lilavati International support cardiac cath lab care in Mumbai?

Lilavati International in Mumbai provides cardiac catheterisation services within a quaternary-care environment at its Bandra West campus. The cath lab is integrated with the hospital's dedicated cardiac emergency response pathway, ICCU, stroke unit, and multiple operation theatres — enabling a coordinated continuum of care from diagnosis through to intervention and critical-care recovery if required.

Key infrastructure supporting cath lab procedures at Lilavati International includes:

• Cardiac catheterisation laboratory with interventional cardiology capability
• Round-the-clock CT, MRI, ultrasound, and diagnostic laboratory services
• Intensive Coronary Care Unit (ICCU) for post-procedure monitoring
• Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) and general ICU for complex cases
• On-site blood bank, pathology, and cardiothoracic surgery support
• 24/7 emergency department on the ground floor — no appointment required
• International patient-care support

The hospital holds Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation — 8th Edition, along with NABH Hospital Accreditation and NABL Accreditation, reflecting adherence to internationally benchmarked clinical and safety standards.

For elective cardiac catheterisation enquiries or to discuss your coronary angiography or angioplasty options, speak with the cardiology team at Lilavati International. To find a specialist, use the cardiologist directory or contact us directly.