Contrast X-rays (Angiography)
Definition
Angiography is a procedure in which a contrast material that can be seen using x-ray equipment is injected into one of the arteries, allowing your health care provider to see the vessel.
How the test is performed
An arteriogram can be used to examine almost any artery, including those of the head, kidneys, heart, or lungs. It is sometimes used as part of a procedure to repair the blood vessels called balloon angioplasty.
First, the doctor will need to insert an intravenous (IV) line into one of the blood vessels in the patient's arm, chest, neck, or groin. A catheter is then inserted through the IV and into the patient's blood vessels using an X-ray machine that produces "live" pictures. Once the catheter is placed into the blood vessel of interest, contrast material is injected and pictures are taken. Sometimes it takes a long time for the doctors to get the catheter into just the right spot. It can be compared to threading a needle for sewing.
Why the test is performed
In general, arteriograms give the best pictures of the body's blood vessels. Arteriograms are used to make specific diagnoses and to help determine what the best treatment is in a particular case. Often, the treatment itself can be performed using the same type of catheters used in the arteriogram, instead of requiring a more extensive surgery in an additional procedure.
What the risks are
The risks for this procedure depend on the type of arteriogram performed.
- In general, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and pain at the IV site.
- There is always a very small risk that the soft plastic catheters could actually damage the blood vessels.
- Blood clots could form on the catheters and later block blood vessels elsewhere in the body.
- The contrast material could damage the kidneys (particularly in patients with diabetes).
Other risks may be present as well.
Here is an image of a cardiac arteriogram: Cardiac Arteriogram
Adapted from the National Library of Medicine (http://medlineplus.gov).