Cathetherization Laboratory

Catheterization uses advanced technology to perform minimally-invasive medical treatments. Using highly specialized medical equipment, a catheter and wire are guided into the body for diagnosis and treatment purposes. The Catherization Lab (Cath Lab) uses digital technology to extend the “reach” of highly skilled technicians and physicians through the use of catheters and guide wires, allowing microsurgeries to be performed through a rice-grain-sized incision.

Interventional medicine is a discipline of its own and can be divided into two categories: blood vessel catheterization and non-blood vessel catheterization. Catheterization replaces traditional treatments involving invasive surgeries and intensive follow-up recovery. Catheterization treatment can be applied to various systems of the body: cardiac system, peripheral vascular system, nervous system, cancers, etc.

The BJU Cath Lab treated its first patient in May 2012. The Cath Lab uses the Innova 3100 IQ angiograph made by General Electric for imaging. Aside from being able to provide various interventional heart treatments, the machine can also be used to treat conditions found in cranial vessels, peripheral vessels, and internal organs.

A state-of-the-art 64-slice Computed Tomography (CT) scanner is also available, mainly to be used for coronary angiography with 3D reconstruction to identify abnormalities with the coronary artery. The CT scanner provides quick and accurate imaging while delivering relatively lower doses of radiation.