Angiogram

An angiogram is an x-ray examination of your blood vessels. An interventional radiologist performs the examination typically by placing a catheter, which is a small long tube, into an artery near the groin. Contrast (x-ray dye) is injected into the blood vessel and x-ray images are obtained which create a map of the blood vessels. The angiogram can show the location and severity of a vessel blockage or aneurysm.

The typical angiogram takes 1-2 hours to complete. The patient is given a local anesthetic prior to insertion of catheter and typically just feels pressure at the groin. Catheter removal, at the end of the case, is not painful and 15 minutes of pressure is applied to prevent bleeding. The patient is then escorted to One-Day Surgery for a recovery period that can last up to 6 hours.

Patient Preparation:
 

1. Do not eat or drink after midnight, the night before your angiography.
2. Arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home.
3. Inform you doctor of any allergies you may have, especially to x-ray contrast.
4. You may take your medicines with small sips of water on the morning of the exam. Please consult with your doctor about whether or not to take certain medications, such as blood thinners like Coumadin or Insulin.
5. Bring all of your medications with you.

After Discharge:

1. Limit activity for at least 24 hours after the examination.
2. Do not shower or bathe until the following morning.
3. Drink extra fluids.
4. The patient will be given care instructions upon discharge from the hospital.

Notify Your Doctor If:

1. You notice bleeding or an enlarging lump at the site where the catheter was inserted.
2. Increasing pain at the insertion site.
3. Leg pain or numbness.
4. Dizziness or light-headed feeling.