What is the purpose of coronary angiography?

The purpose of coronary angiography is primarily to visualize the coronary arteries. This imaging technique involves the injection of a contrast dye into the coronary arteries, allowing for detailed visualization of blood flow and identification of any blockages or abnormalities. By providing a clear picture of the coronary arteries, healthcare providers can diagnose conditions such as coronary artery disease, assess the severity of blockages, and determine appropriate treatment options.

The other options, while relevant to cardiovascular evaluation, do not pertain to the specific purpose of coronary angiography. For example, assessing heart murmurs typically involves auscultation and may require echocardiography rather than invasive imaging. Measuring blood oxygen levels is done through pulse oximetry or arterial blood gases, which focuses on oxygen saturation rather than the structure of the coronary arteries. Evaluating heart rhythm involves techniques like ECG or telemetry, which monitor the electrical activity of the heart rather than visualizing the coronary artery anatomy directly.