Current indications for coronary arteriography.

Coronary arteriography is not necessary in all patients with angina pectoris. Angiography is indicated to define coronary anatomy in patients who have persistent angina despite full medication. It is also indicated in patients with a markedly positive stress test, unstable angina pectoris, positive stress test following myocardial infarction, variants of angina, ventricular aneurysm complications, and in the young coronary patient. Coronary arteriography may clarify the diagnosis in patients with chest pain of uncertain origin.The family physician should counsel the patient about risk factors, initiate medical therapy, and psychologically prepare the patient for potential cardiac investigations.Although coronary angiography has inherent risks, complications may occur which are a result of the natural course of the patient's coronary disease.