The Gold Standard for Diagnosing Coronary Heart Disease

Understanding the Gold Standard in Coronary Heart Disease Diagnosis

When it comes to accurately diagnosing coronary heart disease (CHD), the most reliable and widely accepted method is selective coronary angiography. This procedure involves puncturing a peripheral artery, typically the radial or femoral artery, and guiding a catheter to the root of the aorta where the coronary arteries originate. A contrast dye is then injected, allowing doctors to visualize the coronary arteries using imaging technology.

What Does the Procedure Reveal?

During coronary angiography, medical professionals focus on key arteries such as the left anterior descending artery (LAD), the left circumflex artery (LCX), and the right coronary artery (RCA). These vessels are crucial for supplying blood to the heart muscle. If any of these arteries show a narrowing of 50% or more, it is considered a strong indicator of coronary heart disease.

How Is Significant Blockage Treated?

Patients suffering from CHD often experience angina—chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. If coronary angiography reveals severe blockages, typically 70% or more, interventional treatment may be recommended. In such cases, a stent—a small mesh tube—can be placed within the affected artery to restore proper blood flow and alleviate symptoms.

Why Stenting Can Be an Effective Solution

Stent placement is a common and effective treatment for patients with significant arterial narrowing. It not only helps relieve symptoms like chest pain but also improves heart function and reduces the risk of heart attack. This minimally invasive approach is often preferred over more extensive surgical options, especially when the blockage is localized and accessible.