Where is the procedure performed?

The procedure is performed in a hospital setting, and while it only takes about 30-60 minutes, the preparation and recovery time can take several additional hours. Sometimes, the patient may have to spend the night in the hospital before or after the procedure. After cardiac catheterization, the doctor should have an informed idea of what is causing the problem and will be able to determine the best treatment plan for the patient. Full recovery time is usually a week or less, depending on where the catheter was inserted; the patient must keep the insertion area clean during recovery.