Which of the following is an indication for cardiac catheterization?

• A. Anemia
• B. Hypertension
• C. Arrhythmia
• D. Assessment for surgical procedures

Answer: (D)

Cardiac catheterization is used when you need precise information about the heart’s anatomy and hemodynamics to guide management, especially when planning procedures. Before a surgical procedure, this test provides definitive data on coronary arteries, valve function, chamber pressures, and shunt status, helping decide whether any revascularization or valve intervention is needed and shaping the surgical plan.

Anemia does not typically require catheterization; it’s evaluated and managed based on blood tests and the underlying cause. Hypertension is managed medically and through risk assessment unless there’s suspicion of structural heart disease that would necessitate invasive testing. Arrhythmias may lead to electrophysiology study or noninvasive monitoring rather than routine catheterization solely for rhythm assessment. Thus, the scenario most aligned with an indication for cardiac catheterization is preparing for and assessing a surgical procedure.