Is angiography is compulsory after heart attack. My father (58 yrs) got a heart attack on last saturday and was cured through medicines and discharge after 4 days. Doctor has asked for a complete bed-rest. on asking for angiography he is saying it is not required in all the cases. Should we go for angiography or not?
Hello, Brief Answer: Coronary angiogram in cases with a proven ischemic heart attack is essential. Explanation: My opinion is that ischemic heart disease is becoming an important issue nowadays. Many investigations are available now to exclude ischemic heart disease. A coronary angiogram is an invasive procedure but comes with benefits as an intervention may be needed and angioplasty using stents deployed at the exact site of lesions. I suggest my patients the following: Continue on full anti-ischemic and schedule your coronary angiogram as soon as possible. The information provided by you is not sufficient to provide a good opinion. If someone comes to me with this condition I would ask them about the type of heart attack the patient experienced. Also, other risk factors may be there. Conclusion: I suggest you check with your physician and get your father the intervention needed. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.