A coronary angiogram is a safe, specialized test that helps your doctor see how well blood is flowing to your heart. It’s used to check for any blockages or narrowings in the coronary arteries—the vessels that supply your heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood.

At Hawaii Heart Associates, Dr. Jeremy Docekal performs diagnostic coronary angiograms at Hilo Medical Center using a minimally invasive approach. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is gently inserted into a blood vessel—typically in your wrist or groin—and guided to your heart. A spegcial contrast dye is then injected, making the arteries visible on X-ray images.

This allows your care team to:

• Identify any clogged or narrowed arteries

• Understand the cause of symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath

• Decide on the most effective treatment—whether that’s medication, a stent, or in some cases, bypass surgery

The test is done with your comfort and safety in mind. Most patients are awake but relaxed, and the procedure typically takes less than an hour. Afterward, our team closely monitors you to ensure a smooth recovery and will discuss the next steps based on your results.

If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your heart health, a coronary angiogram may be an important part of understanding your condition and choosing the right care plan.