Pressure wire study

A pressure wire study only takes place during coronary angiography (a special X-ray procedure to check the coronary arteries). During the test, your consultant will apply local anaesthesia to your wrist or groin, then insert a catheter (thin tube) into the artery followed by a wire with a special pressure sensor at its tip. They will then place the wire beyond the narrowing in the coronary artery using X-ray imaging.

The sensor records the pressure difference either side of the narrowing. A drug called adenosine may be inserted through the catheter to maximise blood flow.

Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. They will advise you on the following:

• food and drink intake prior to the test
• use of anticoagulants before and after the procedure

After your coronary angiography and pressure wire study, your consultant will discuss the test results and further treatment options with you. In some situations, angioplasty and stent insertion may be performed as an immediate follow-on procedure.Your consultant will advise beforehand if this is part of your treatment plan.

You will likely remain in hospital for up to four hours where our nurses can monitor you. After this time you should be able to go home. You may be given a course of medication to take, and advised on follow-up appointments.