Cardiac catheterization is an invasive procedure that may be recommended to patients on a case-to-case basis. The goal of the procedure is to look for heart conditions like blocked arteries and dysfunctional valves. Catheterization procedures are performed in a catheterization laboratory (cath lab) and involve inserting catheters into blood vessels to visualize the heart. Various tests, like a coronary angiogram, ventriculogram, and aortogram, can also be performed during the procedure to check for heart and specific valve function. A coronary angiogram visualizes coronary arteries, while a left ventriculogram measures ejection fraction and assesses mitral valve integrity. An aortogram is often used to evaluate the aortic root and valve to look for conditions like aortic stenosis or regurgitation. Patients with allergies to contrast dye, latex, or shellfish should let their doctor know prior to the procedure.