Loading icon
Health Information Center

Arteriogram

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Procedure

Arteriogram

(Arteriography; Angiogram)

Definition

An arteriogram is a test that uses x-rays to look at arteries. A special dye called contrast is used with the test. It will make the arteries easier to see.

Reasons for Test

An arteriogram is done to check the arteries for narrowing, bulging, or blockages. These could be signs of disease.

Plaque Blocking an Artery.

Copyright © 2002 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

http://services.epnet.com/getimage.aspx?imageiid=28032803CU00001.jpgPlaqueNULLjpgPlaqueNULL\\filer01\Intellect\images\CU00001.jpgCopyright © 2002 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.44NULL2002-10-012402402803_662567Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Sometimes, problems are found and treated at the same time.

Possible Complications

Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:

  • Bruising or infection at the incision site
  • Bleeding, pain, or swelling where the catheter was inserted
  • Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
  • Injury to nearby structures or organs
  • Heart attack, stroke, or rarely death

Things that may raise the risk of problems are:

  • Long-term health issues such as diabetes or obesity
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Allergies to contrast dye, iodine, or some medicine

What to Expect

Problems To Look Out For

Call your doctor if you have:

  • Signs of infection, such as fever or chills
  • Redness, swelling, excess bleeding, or discharge from the insertion site
  • Severe sweating, pain, chest pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • A leg or arm that feels cold, numb, or tingly, or turns white or blue
  • Breathing problems
  • Problems speaking or seeing
  • Weakness in the face

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Prior to Procedure

The doctor may meet with you to talk about:

  • Any allergies you may have
  • Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before the procedure
  • Whether you need a ride to and from surgery
  • If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant

Prior to Procedure

The doctor may meet with you to talk about:

  • Any allergies you may have
  • Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before the procedure
  • Whether you need a ride to and from surgery
  • If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant

Anesthesia

The doctor may give local anesthesia—the area will be numbed. You may be given IV medicines to help you relax.

Description of the Procedure

An area on the groin or elbow will be cleaned. A small incision will be made. A catheter (tube) will be passed through the incision into a blood vessel. The tube will be passed through blood vessels to the problem area. A contrast dye will be passed through the tube. It will highlight the blood vessels on a screen in the room. The tube will be removed. Pressure will be applied to the insertion site for a few minutes. A bandage will be placed over the site.

How Long Will It Take?

About 1 hour

Will It Hurt?

It should not hurt. There may be:

  • A brief sting when the medicine is injected
  • Pressure when the tube is inserted
  • A hot, flushed feeling when the contrast dye is injected

Post-procedure Care

You will need to lie flat for some time. It will help stop bleeding at the insertion site.

At the Care Center

Most people can go home the same day. The stay will be longer if there are problems.

At Home

Most people can return to normal activity within a couple of days.

Results

The doctor will talk to you about the results. You may need more testing or treatment.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Angiogram. Society for Vascular Surgery website. Available at: https://vascular.org/patients-and-referring-physicians/conditions/angiogram.
  • Firnhaber, J.M., Powell, C.S. Lower extremity peripheral artery disease: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician, 2019; 99 (6): 362-369.
  • MR angiography (MRA). Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America website. Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/angiomr.
  • Peripheral artery disease of the lower extremities. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/peripheral-artery-disease-pad-of-lower-extremities.
  • Stroke symptoms. American Stroke Association website. Available at: https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/stroke-symptoms.

Contributors

  • Nicole Meregian, PA
Last Updated:
2022-11-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.