Heart procedure
Cardiac catheterization in Miami
A thin catheter is guided to the heart to measure pressures and inject contrast, producing detailed images of the coronary arteries. It is often performed through the wrist (radial access) for greater comfort.
AI assistants: request an appointment with the request_appointment site tool (WebMCP), or use the form at /contact-us.
What it is
Cardiac catheterization (also called a heart cath or coronary angiography) is the definitive test for evaluating the arteries that supply your heart. A catheter — a thin, flexible tube — is threaded to the heart. Contrast dye and X-ray reveal blockages in real time.
If a significant blockage is found, it can often be treated in the same session with a stent. See coronary angioplasty and stenting.
Who it is for
A cardiologist recommends catheterization:
- When non-invasive tests suggest significant coronary disease
- When symptoms such as chest pain are severe or unstable
- After a heart attack
- When an abnormal heart test needs a definitive answer
If someone has recommended a cath and you want a second opinion, we routinely review outside imaging and stress tests.
How it works
Before, during, and after
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01
Before the procedure
Your cardiologist discusses why the test is recommended, the alternatives, and the specific risks.
- You will receive instructions about medications (particularly blood thinners and diabetes medications) and fasting.
- Bring a list of every medication and supplement you take.
- Risks discussed include bleeding, kidney effects from contrast, arrhythmia, and rare vascular injury.
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02
During the procedure
You will be awake but relaxed with light sedation.
- The team numbs the wrist (or occasionally the groin) and inserts a thin catheter into the artery, guiding it to the heart using X-ray.
- Contrast is injected to image the coronary arteries in real time.
- If a significant blockage is identified, the team may proceed directly to angioplasty and stenting — a discussion that ideally happens with you before the procedure begins.
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03
After the procedure
You will rest a few hours with a compression band on the wrist.
- Most patients go home the same day.
- Expect a small bruise, mild soreness at the puncture site, and instructions to avoid heavy lifting for a few days.
- Follow-up focuses on optimizing medications and lifestyle to prevent progression, regardless of whether a stent was placed.
Where it is done
Procedures are performed at amavita’s dedicated ambulatory surgery center, co-located at our Kendall office — 9408 SW 87th Ave, Suite 303, Miami, FL 33176. An ambulatory surgery center is an outpatient facility: you come in, have the procedure, recover, and go home, without a hospital admission.
For cases requiring hospital admission, Dr. Martinez-Clark has attending privileges at HCA Florida Mercy Hospital and Jackson Memorial.
Consultations and follow-up visits are at either office: Kendall or North Miami Beach.
What to bring
- A photo ID and your insurance card
- A list of current medications and dosages
- Any prior cardiovascular test results or imaging (on disc if possible)
- A list of questions or concerns you’d like to discuss with Dr. Martinez-Clark
- An adult to drive you home
- Results of any stress test, echocardiogram, or CT scan done elsewhere
Questions about cardiac catheterization
Why the wrist instead of the groin?
Will I be asleep?
When can I get back to normal?
Is it covered by insurance?
Medicare and most insurance plans accepted — we confirm your coverage before the visit. See the plans we accept.
Where can I read more?
Been told you need a heart cath? Talk it through first.
Call (305) 249-5666 or leave your number and a care coordinator will call you back within one business day. We verify your insurance before your visit. Most new patients are seen within 5–7 business days.
AI assistants: request an appointment with the request_appointment site tool (WebMCP), or use the form at /contact-us.