CAG in medical terms most commonly refers to a Coronary Angiogram.
Coronary Angiogram (CAG) Explained
A Coronary Angiogram (CAG) is a procedure used to visualize the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. According to the reference, it serves both as a diagnostic X-ray imaging procedure and a treatment for coronary artery disease (CAD).
Key Aspects of a CAG:
- Procedure: It involves cardiac catheterization, where a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel (typically in the groin or arm) and guided to the heart.
- Visualization: A contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken to visualize the coronary arteries. This helps identify any blockages or narrowing.
- Diagnostic Tool: CAG is crucial for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD).
- Treatment Option: As noted in the reference, CAG, using cardiac catheterization (inserting a 2 mm catheter), can also be used as a treatment option for CAD. This typically refers to angioplasty and stenting, which can be performed during the same procedure if a blockage is found.
- Reference: "Coronary angiogram (CAG) is both a diagnostic X-ray imaging procedure and a treatment for coronary artery disease (CAD), using the cardiac catheterization technique by inserting a 2 mm." (Coronary Angiogram (CAG): Procedure, Benefits. 26-Jan-2024)
