A catheterization lab, often called a cath lab, is a specialized medical facility where doctors perform procedures to diagnose and treat heart and blood vessel conditions. In this lab, doctors use thin, flexible tubes called catheters to access the heart and blood vessels through small incisions. This allows them to see the blood flow and identify any blockages or issues.
The procedures done in a catheterization lab can include angioplasty, where a balloon is used to open narrowed arteries, and stent placement, which involves inserting a small mesh tube to keep the artery open. These minimally invasive techniques help patients recover faster compared to traditional surgery.