Physicians caring for patients suspected of having a heart attack may trigger "false-positive" activation of the cardiac catheterization laboratory based on test results suggestive of a heart attack, according to a new study.

How accurate is cardiac catheterization?

Diagnostic predictions employing combined clinical and noninvasive cardiac evaluation were completely correct in 86% of patients, and management strategy was correct in 97% of individuals. In approximately one-half of all patients full cardiac catheterization or coronary arteriography was recommended.

Can a heart cath miss a blockage?

A catherization will show no evidence of obstruction (blockage) and confirm that no artery is blocked 50% or more. Other imaging tests will identify a limited (localized) area of heart muscle injury. Cardiac MRI or direct imaging of the interior of your coronary artery may be helpful if the diagnosis is unclear.