Angiography
What is angiography?
Angiography is an X-ray examination of the blood vessels that allows doctors to see how blood circulates within the body. It is used when a blockage in the flow of blood or abnormality of a blood vessel is suspected.
An angiogram can tell a doctor whether an artery is blocked, where the blockage is, how severe it is and what the cause is. A common cause of blockage is a blood clot in an artery narrowed by arteriosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.
How does an angiogram work?
A radiologist will place a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into an artery or vein and then inject a small amount of contrast dye into the blood vessel to make it more visible in an X-ray.
What is the angiogram process?
There are just a few steps in this simple and nearly painless procedure:
- Patients are positioned on a comfortable table and X-rays are taken to get a pre-test picture.
- Patients are then given a local anesthetic where the catheter will be inserted. A small incision will be made and a thin catheter inserted into the artery.
- When the tube is exactly in place, some distance along the artery, the X-ray dye will be injected and the catheter removed. While the contrast dye is being injected, patients may experience a feeling of warmth, a metallic taste, or nausea. These symptoms are normal and should only last a minute or so.
- Removal of the catheter tube does not hurt, but pressure will be applied when it is removed to prevent the artery or vein from bleeding.
The advanced X-ray camera used in our angiography testing will show exactly where the dye reaches and where it doesn't; indicating if there is a blockage or abnormality in the blood vessel.
The entire process usually takes one to two hours to complete.
How do I prepare for my angiogram?
Patients receive a call to discuss what they can and cannot do before and after their test. However, as a general guide:
- Patients who are allergic to X-ray dye or iodine should let their doctor know as soon as possible.
- Smokers should not smoke for at least 24 hours before their angiogram as nicotine may affect the results of some tests.
- Patients who need to take medications in the morning should wash them down with just a few sips of water. They should also bring all medications with them to the hospital.
- Patients should not eat any solid food after midnight the night before their procedure. Patients may, however, have clear fluids, such as water or broth.
What happens after the test?
If a patient is having the procedure done as an outpatient, they will remain in the recovery room for four to six hours following your angiogram. Although they will be asked to lie still, they will be able to eat and drink. Visitors are allowed.
Someone will need to drive the patient home, and the patient should not drive for the rest of the day. Patients should also relax and take it easy at home. If they have a desk job, they should be able to return to work the next day but should avoid any lifting or straining for at least a week.
Before the patient goes home, the radiology nurse will give them further instructions.
When will I get the results?
A radiologist will read the scan and send a report to the physician within 24 hours. The patient’s doctor will then contact them to discuss their results.
Will my insurance cover angiography?
Most insurance plans cover this test. Patients should contact their insurance plan if they have any questions.