A right heart catheterization, or “right heart cath” is a procedure that lets the doctor look inside your heart.

During a right heart cath, a small hollow tube (a catheter) is inserted into a large vein and gently guided into the heart with the assistance of x-rays and monitors.

The heart cath allows the doctor to check pressure and blood flow in the chambers inside your heart, determine how much oxygen is in your blood, and to check the heart valves and blood vessels. A heart cath can help determine if you need surgery, and may also be used to repair certain heart problems.

You will need to stay overnight in the hospital and rest for 24 hours following the procedure.