(Arteriography)
Definition
Definition
An arteriogram is a test allows the arteries to be viewed on an x-ray. A contrast dye is injected into the arteries to make them visible. The test makes images that can be used to diagnose and treat problems in the arteries.
Reasons for Test
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 ArteryCopyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.
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This test could be done to diagnose conditions such as:
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)—blockages in the arteries in your arms or legs
- Aneurysm —bulging of the arteries
- Vascular malformation—problems in the structure of the arteries
Sometimes, found during the arteriogram may be treated. A clot may be dissolved or angioplasty with or without stenting may be done.
Possible Complications
Possible Complications
Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
- Bruising or infection at the puncture site
- Bleeding, pain, or swelling where the catheter was inserted
- Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
- Damage to the blood vessels during the procedure, which may require surgery
- Heart attack, stroke, or in rare cases, death
What to Expect
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
At your appointment before the test, your doctor will likely:
- Do a thorough physical examination
- Do blood tests
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Ask about:
- Your medical history
- Medication you take
- Allergies
- Whether you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
In the days before your procedure, you will need to:
- Arrange for a ride to and from the procedure.
- Talk to your doctor if you take any medications, herbs, or supplements.
- You may need to stop taking some medications up to 1 week before the procedure.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure.
Anesthesia
You will have an IV placed in your arm to give you medications. These medications will make you feel sleepy and comfortable.
Description of the Procedure
For this procedure, you will have a catheter placed in your groin or elbow so that the contrast dye can be injected. The skin where the catheter will be placed will be cleaned. A tiny cut will be made. A hollow needle will be inserted into the artery. A thin wire will be placed into the artery. The catheter will be threaded over the wire, and the wire will be removed.
The catheter will be used to inject a contrast dye into your artery. The dye may cause you to feel warm or flushed for a few moments. X-rays will be taken to see how the contrast dye is moving through your arteries. You will need to lie still to prevent blurry images.
How Long Will It Take?
About 1 hour
Will It Hurt?
Although the procedure is not painful, you may feel:
- A brief sting when local anesthesia is injected
- Pressure when catheter is inserted
- Hot and flushed when contrast dye is injected
Post-procedure Care
After the test, the catheter will be removed. The IV will also be removed from your arm.
At the Care Center
Immediately following the procedure:
- You will need to be monitored for about 6 hours.
- Pressure may be applied to the insertion site for 10-20 minutes to stop the bleeding.
- You will need to keep the arm or leg where the catheter was inserted straight. This will minimize bleeding.
- You will be encouraged to drink a lot of fluids to flush the contrast material from your system.
At Home
When you return home, be sure to follow all of your doctor’s instructions.
Call Your Doctor
Call Your Doctor
Call your doctor if any of these occurs:
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the injection site
- Extreme sweating, nausea, or vomiting
- Extreme pain, including chest pain
- Leg or arm feels cold, turns white or blue, or becomes numb or tingly
- Difficulty breathing
- Any problems with your speech or vision
- Facial weakness
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
RESOURCES:
RadiologyInfo—Radiological Society of North America http://www.radiologyinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
References:
http://www.cpmc.org/learning/documents/ir-angioarterio-ws.pdf
Updated 2013. Accessed March 3, 2015.
Angiogram. VascularWeb website. Available at:
http://www.vascularweb.org/vascularhealth/Pages/angiogram.aspx
Updated January 2011. Accessed March 3, 2015.
MR angiography (MRA). Radiological Society of North America Radiology Info website. Available at:
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=angiomr
Updated August 27, 2013. Accessed March 3, 2015.
Stroke diagnosis. American Stroke Association website. Available at:
http://www.strokeassociation.org/STROKEORG/AboutStroke/Diagnosis/Diagnosis_UCM_310890_Article.jsp
Updated November 21, 2012. Accessed March 3, 2015.
Last Updated: 3/18/2013