Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization is the definitive test for identifying blockages in the arteries of the heart, heart muscle damage, valve disease and congenital anomalies within the heart. X-rays of the heart are taken while "dye" is introduced into the arteries and chambers of the heart. The information obtained from cardiac catheterization is used by the cardiologist to determine the next step in the treatment process, which may include medication therapy, angioplasty or stenting, or heart surgery.

The central piece of equipment is the C-arm, a digital cardiovascular and interventional X-ray imaging system. It allows doctors to see blood vessels and anatomy of the heart clearly. The images produced by the machine are detailed enough that physicians can easily maneuver small medical devices, including catheters, during clinical procedures.

The same-day Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Newton Medical Center recently ranked in the top one percent nationwide in patient satisfaction surveys. Measurable categories included the courtesy and skill of the staff, the skill of the physician doing the procedures, courtesy toward family members, the cleanliness of the facility and likelihood of recommending our cardiac services to friends.