Interventional Radiology: Arterial
Angiogram / Arteriogram

Angiograms provide physicians with x-ray images of arteries or veins for diagnostic purposes. Angiography studies are frequently used to detect blockages, narrowings, bleeding sites, damaged arteries or tumors. Angiography may be used to study the blood vessels in and around the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, arms and legs.

Angiograms may be used to diagnose the cause of symptoms that suggest vascular disease for example, hypertension (high blood pressure) may suggest renal (kidney) artery disease, leg pain while walking may suggest peripheral vascular disease, weakness or dizziness (stroke symptoms) may suggest a blocked artery in the brain. Angiogram procedures may also be used to illustrate anatomy prior to surgery or interventional procedure.

Angiogram procedures involve placement of a small tube (catheter) in an artery or vein, injection of a contrast agent into the catheter and x-ray imaging. Patients should alert the technologist of any previous contrast reaction / allergies. When such procedures are performed on arteries, the procedure is known as an arteriogram. When an angiogram procedure is performed on veins, the procedure is called a venogram.

For arteriogram, the catheter insertion site; groin area (for femoral artery access) or arm (for brachial artery access) is cleaned and shaved (if necessary) in preparation for the injection of a local anesthetic usually, Lidocaine. This injection stings a bit, but will numb the area. Patients should only feel pressure as the catheter is inserted through a small (1/4 inch) incision. A contrast agent is then injected through the catheter making the artery visible on x-rays. Patient may experience a warm sensation for a few seconds as the contrast is injected. Several contrast injections into the catheter and x-rays are needed to complete the exam. Once the catheter is removed, firm pressure is applied for 10 to 20 minutes until bleeding stops.

Additional time may be necessary if a second therapeutic procedure, such as arterial angioplasty / stent placement is performed at the same time.