Study: Expensive, Invasive Heart Test May Be Overused

A new study reveals that nearly two-thirds of all people who undergo cardiac catheterization who have not been diagnosed with heart disease receive a clean bill of health. That's troubling, considering that the test is expensive and exposes patients to substantial amounts of radiation.

During the test, a catheter is inserted through the groin and threaded through blood vessels in an effort to examine coronary arteries.

The study's authors concluded that "Better strategies for risk stratification are needed to inform decisions and to increase the diagnostic yield of cardiac catheterization of routine clinical practice."

However, experts noted that just becacuse patients who undergo testing don't have a severe artery obstruction, that doesn't mean they don't need therapy. The test results could still lead to doctors recommending medical treatment or lifestyle modifications. For many, the test can also provide peace of mind and the freedom to be more active.

The study was published in the March 11, 2010 issue of the The New England Journal of Medicine.