When non-invasive tests such as EKGs, blood tests or stress tests raise the suspicion of coronary arterial blockages a cardiac catheterization with coronary angiography is often recommended.   A plastic tube is inserted into the artery in the groin and a catheter fed through the tube up to the heart.  Contrast dye is used to visualize the coronary arteries to diagnose the exact location and severity of blockages.  Once blockages are diagnosed, a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or bypass surgery can be performed.  Cardiologists can also measure blood flow, oxygen levels and pressures in the various cardiac chambers using cardiac catheters.  These measurements are useful in the evaluation of valve disorders and congestive heart failure.  All ECA cardiologists perform diagnostic cardiac catheterization.  Dr. Kim is the medical director of the cardiac cath lab at Evergreen hospital.