What is the primary purpose of the cardiac catheterization procedure?

The primary purpose of cardiac catheterization is to visualize the coronary arteries for diagnosis and treatment. This procedure involves threading a thin, flexible tube through the blood vessels to the heart, allowing healthcare providers to examine the coronary arteries on imaging. By injecting a contrast dye, clinicians can observe the flow of blood through the arteries, identifying any blockages or abnormalities that may indicate coronary artery disease or other cardiac issues.

This visualization is crucial because it enables targeted interventions such as angioplasty or the placement of stents to restore blood flow to the heart muscle. Furthermore, the captured images assist in formulating appropriate treatment plans, including surgical options if necessary.

The other choices involve important cardiac evaluations but do not directly encompass the primary role of cardiac catheterization. For instance, measuring heart rates and rhythms is typically done through ECG monitoring, while assessing heart valve function may involve echocardiography. Monitoring electrocardiogram activity specifically focuses on the electrical activity of the heart rather than the structural assessment of the coronary vessels that catheterization targets.