What is a common diagnostic procedure used to assess for coronary artery obstruction?

Coronary angiography is a key diagnostic procedure specifically designed to visualize the coronary arteries and assess for the presence of obstructions or blockages. It involves the injection of contrast material into the coronary arteries followed by imaging, typically using X-ray technology, to clearly delineate the arteries and highlight areas of narrowing or occlusion. This procedure is considered the gold standard for diagnosing coronary artery disease, as it directly shows the anatomy and pathology of the coronary vessels.

While echocardiography can provide valuable information about cardiac function and structure, it is not primarily used to visualize coronary artery obstructions. Cardiac MRI, though useful for assessing cardiac tissue and detecting ischemia and infarction, does not provide the same direct visualization of coronary arteries as angiography. A chest X-ray can help identify other thoracic issues but lacks the specificity and sensitivity needed to evaluate coronary artery obstructions directly. Thus, coronary angiography remains the most definitive method for assessing coronary artery disease.