Angiography(Catheter Angiography; Arteriography; Angiogram)
by
Laurie Rosenblum Definition TOPAn angiography is an x-ray exam of the blood vessels. The exam uses a chemical that is injected into the blood vessels. The chemical makes the blood vessels easier to see on the x-ray.
Reasons for Procedure TOPThis procedure may be done to:
In some cases, a blocked blood vessel can be treated during the procedure. This would prevent the need for another procedure. Possible Complications TOPProblems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
What to Expect TOPPrior to ProcedureBefore the test, your doctor may:
You will need to arrange for a ride to and from the procedure. AnesthesiaA local anesthesia will be injected into your arm or groin. A small dose of sedative may also be given by IV. Description of the Procedure TOPAn area of your groin or arm will be cleaned. This is where a catheter will be inserted. A small incision will be made into your skin. The catheter will be placed through the incision into an artery. The catheter will be guided through the arteries to the area to be examined. The contrast material is injected through the catheter. The procedure will be viewed on a nearby monitor. Several sets of x-rays will be taken. The catheter will then be removed. Pressure will be applied to the area for about 10 minutes. How Long Will It Take? TOPLess than an hour to several hours. It depends on whether the doctor decides to fix any problems at the same time. How Much Will It Hurt? TOPAlthough the procedure is not painful, you may feel:
Post-procedure Care TOPAt the Care CenterImmediately following the procedure:
At HomeWhen you return home after the procedure, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions. Results TOPThe doctor will examine the x-rays. Your doctor will discuss the findings and any necessary treatment options with you. Call Your Doctor TOPCall your doctor if any of these occur:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:American Heart Association http://www.heart.org Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America https://www.radiologyinfo.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Health Canada https://www.canada.ca The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca References:Angiogram. Society for Vascular Surgery website. Available at:
https://vascular.org/patient-resources/vascular-tests/angiogram. Accessed March 1, 2018. Catheter angiography. Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America website. Available at:
https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=angiocath. Updated January 20, 2018. Accessed March 1, 2018. Coronary angiography. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at:
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/coronary-angiography. Accessed March 1, 2018. Last reviewed March 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael J. Fucci, DO Last Updated: 5/2/2014 |
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