Ask our physician

My doctor told me that I’m going to need a cardiac catheterization. I did some research and am now familiar with the procedure. Now I’m worried because I’m not sure I can lie flat for the entire procedure after hurting my back last year. —Frank M., Burlington

I can understand your fears. Many people who have catheterizations grapple with this issue. But there’s now a better option available for your situation. Deborah Heart and Lung Center physicians are able to perform catheterizations through the wrist, a far more comfortable procedure for people who have back discomfort, as you can sit up immediately after the procedure. I must caution you, however, that some patients—5 percent or less—aren’t candidates for this approach. The decision is based on the experience of the individual physician doing the wrist cath, and each patient’s individual anatomy. My recommendation is that you make an appointment at Deborah as soon as possible, and discuss this procedure, as well as catheterizations in general, with your physician.