Angiogram Procedure

An angiogram is a medical imaging test used to visualize the inside of blood vessels and diagnose blockages, aneurysms, or other vascular conditions. The procedure involves injecting a contrast agent into the bloodstream, which highlights the blood vessels on X-ray images.

Types of Angiograms

• Coronary angiogram: used to visualize the coronary arteries and diagnose coronary artery disease
• Cerebral angiogram: used to visualize the blood vessels in the brain and diagnose conditions such as stroke or aneurysms
• Pulmonary angiogram: used to visualize the blood vessels in the lungs and diagnose conditions such as pulmonary embolism
• Peripheral angiogram: used to visualize the blood vessels in the arms and legs and diagnose conditions such as peripheral artery disease

Procedure Overview

The angiogram procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. The patient is given a local anesthetic to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted
2. A small incision is made in the skin, and a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted into the blood vessel
3. The catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the area of interest using X-ray imaging
4. A contrast agent is injected through the catheter, which highlights the blood vessels on X-ray images
5. X-ray images are taken as the contrast agent flows through the blood vessels, providing detailed images of the vascular system
6. The catheter is removed, and the incision site is closed with a bandage or stitch

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with an angiogram, including:

• Bleeding or hematoma at the catheter insertion site
• Infection
• Allergic reaction to the contrast agent
• Kidney damage (in patients with pre-existing kidney disease)
• Stroke or other neurological complications (in cerebral angiograms)

Preparation and Aftercare

To prepare for an angiogram, patients should:

• Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure
• Inform their doctor about any medications they are taking
• Remove any jewelry or clothing that may interfere with the X-ray images

After the procedure, patients should:

• Rest for several hours to allow the catheter insertion site to heal
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several days
• Monitor the catheter insertion site for signs of bleeding or infection