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Catheter placement during a cardiac catheterization

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Catheter insertion points at neck, wrist, and groin, showing catheter placed in right side of heart or in left side.

Cardiac catheterization is done using a thin, soft tube called a catheter. A doctor inserts the catheter into a blood vessel, often in the wrist, groin, or neck, using a special needle. The doctor then slowly guides the catheter through blood vessels toward the heart. The catheter may be moved into the left side or right side of the heart. The catheter tip is moved into various positions in the heart's chambers and vessels (coronary arteries).

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.