Angiography in Mumbai | SL Raheja Hospital

What is angiography and is it available at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai?

Angiography is a specialised X-ray procedure used to examine blood vessels and diagnose conditions affecting blood flow. A contrast dye is injected through a catheter so vessels become visible on imaging. SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai offers catheter angiography as part of its Cardiology services, helping clinicians detect and plan treatment for coronary and vascular conditions.

SL Raheja Hospital — A Fortis Associate — is located at Raheja Rugnalaya Marg, Mahim West, Mumbai 400016. The cardiology team uses angiography both as a diagnostic tool and to guide interventional procedures such as angioplasty and stenting.

Who needs an angiography?

A cardiologist or vascular specialist may recommend angiography when symptoms or test results suggest a problem with blood vessel structure or blood flow. Common indications include:

• Chest pain or angina — to assess whether coronary arteries are narrowed or blocked
• Suspected coronary heart disease — where blood supply to the heart muscle is disrupted
• Aneurysm evaluation — to identify a bulging or weakened section of a blood vessel wall
• Atherosclerosis assessment — to measure the extent of fatty deposits (such as cholesterol) clogging blood vessels
• Pre-surgical planning — to map blood vessels before angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery
• Unexplained shortness of breath or reduced exercise tolerance with a suspected cardiac cause
• Abnormal results on non-invasive cardiac tests (ECG, stress test, echocardiogram)

How is angiography performed at SL Raheja Hospital?

The procedure is carried out in a dedicated catheterisation laboratory (cath lab) within the hospital. The steps below reflect the standard catheter angiogram process:

1. Pre-procedure preparation — You will be asked to fast for a specified period before the procedure. Blood tests, an ECG, and a review of current medications are completed. Any allergies, particularly to contrast dye, are documented.
2. Local anaesthesia — The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic in most adult cases. The access site — typically the wrist (radial) or groin (femoral) — is cleaned and numbed.
3. Catheter insertion — A thin, flexible catheter is inserted into the artery at the access site and carefully guided toward the area under examination, monitored in real time using X-ray imaging.
4. Contrast dye injection — A contrast medium is injected through the catheter into the blood vessel. This dye highlights the vessel walls and any narrowing or blockage as it flows through.
5. X-ray imaging — A series of X-ray images is taken by a radiographer as the dye moves through the vessels, creating a detailed picture of blood flow and vessel structure.
6. Catheter removal and wound care — Once imaging is complete, the catheter is removed. Pressure is applied to the access site to prevent bleeding, and a dressing is applied.
7. Post-procedure monitoring — You are observed in a recovery area while the local anaesthetic wears off and vital signs are monitored. Most patients are discharged the same day; an overnight stay may be required in some cases.

What types of angiography are available?

Angiography can be performed using different imaging techniques. The approach chosen depends on the clinical question, the vessels being examined, and the patient's condition.

For specific guidance on which type of angiography is appropriate for your condition, please use the booking form on this page or contact the cardiology team at info@rahejahospital.com.

How long is the recovery after angiography?

Recovery from a catheter angiogram is generally straightforward. The timeline below reflects typical milestones for most patients:

1. Immediately after the procedure (0–2 hours) — You rest in a monitored recovery area. The access site (wrist or groin) is checked regularly for bleeding or swelling. Vital signs are observed until stable.
2. Same-day discharge (2–6 hours post-procedure) — Most patients are discharged on the same day once they are stable, able to eat and drink, and the access site is secure. A responsible adult must accompany you home.
3. First 24 hours — Rest at home. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or strenuous activity. Keep the dressing dry and intact. Some bruising at the access site is normal.
4. Days 2–3 — Light activity can usually resume. Continue to monitor the access site for unusual swelling, bleeding, or warmth, and contact the hospital if these occur.
5. Day 7 onwards — Most patients return to normal daily activities within a week. Your care team will advise on any specific restrictions based on your individual results and any planned follow-up procedures.

What are the risks and considerations of angiography?

Angiography is a generally safe procedure; however, as with any medical intervention, there are potential risks. Your care team at SL Raheja Hospital will discuss these with you before you provide consent.

• Bruising or haematoma — Bruising at the catheter insertion site (wrist or groin) is the most common side effect and usually resolves within a few days.
• Allergic reaction to contrast dye — Some patients experience a reaction to the contrast medium. This is usually mild and treatable with medication; severe reactions are uncommon.
• Bleeding at the access site — Minor bleeding is possible; significant bleeding is rare but requires prompt attention.
• Kidney function — The contrast dye is processed by the kidneys. Patients with pre-existing kidney conditions require careful monitoring and may need additional precautions.
• Radiation exposure — Catheter and CT angiography involve X-ray radiation. The dose is kept as low as reasonably achievable; MR angiography does not use radiation.
• Rare serious complications — These include damage to the blood vessel at the catheter site, stroke, or heart rhythm disturbances. The risk of serious complications is low.

Your cardiologist will assess your individual risk profile — including kidney function, allergy history, and current medications — before the procedure is scheduled.

Which specialists perform angiography at SL Raheja Hospital in Mumbai?

Angiography at SL Raheja Hospital — A Fortis Associate in Mumbai is performed by qualified cardiologists and interventional specialists within the hospital's Cardiology department. The team is supported by trained radiographers and cardiac nurses in a dedicated catheterisation laboratory.

For information about the specific consultants available for your angiography, including their credentials and appointment availability, please use the booking form on this page or write to info@rahejahospital.com.