Difference Between Angiography and Angioplasty
Heart-related terms can often sound complicated, especially when patients are advised multiple tests or procedures at once. Two commonly misunderstood terms are angiography and angioplasty. While they are closely related, they serve very different purposes in heart care. Understanding the difference between these two procedures helps patients feel informed, confident, and prepared when making treatment decisions. This article explains angiography and angioplasty in simple language, how they differ, and when each is needed. What Is Angiography? Angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to detect blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. When plaque builds up inside them, it can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of chest pain or heart attack. During angiography, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin and guided to the heart. A special contrast dye is injected, wh...