An arteriogram is a test that allows a doctor to see the arteries on an
. A contrast dye is injected into the arteries to make them visible. The test makes images that can be used to diagnose and treat problems in the arteries.
An arteriogram is done to check the arteries for narrowing, bulging, or blockages. These could be signs of disease.
Plaque Blocking an Artery
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This test could be done to diagnose conditions such as:
Sometimes, the doctor may treat problems found during the arteriogram. The doctor may dissolve a clot or do
with or without stenting.
Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
At your appointment before the test, your doctor will likely:
In the days before your procedure, you will need to:
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure.
You will have an IV (a needle in your arm) placed to give you medicines. These medicines will make you feel sleepy and comfortable.
For this procedure, you will have a catheter (small tube) placed in your groin or elbow (depending on which arteries the doctor needs to see) so that the doctor can inject the contrast dye. The skin where the catheter will be placed will be cleaned. The doctor will numb the area with a local anesthetic and make a tiny cut. The doctor will then insert a hollow needle into the artery. A thin wire will be placed into the artery. The catheter will be threaded over the wire, and the wire will be removed.
The doctor will use the catheter to inject a contrast dye into your artery. The dye may cause you to feel warm or flushed for a few moments. The doctor will take x-rays to see how the contrast dye is moving through your arteries. You will need to lie still to prevent blurry images.
About one hour
Although the procedure is not painful, you may feel:
After the test, the catheter will be removed. The IV will also be removed from your arm.
Immediately following the procedure:
When you return home, take these steps:
Call your doctor if any of these occurs:
In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.
American Heart Associationhttp://www.heart.org/
The College of Family Physicians of Canadahttp://www.cfpc.ca/
Angiogram (arteriogram). California Pacific Medical Center website. Available at:
. Updated September 2007. Accessed September 20, 2011.
Angiogram: what is an angiogram? VascularWeb website. Available at:
. Updated January 2011. Accessed September 20, 2011.
Arteriogram. Vascular Disease Foundation website. Available at:
. Updated December 21, 2010. Accessed September 20, 2011.
Diagnosing stroke. American Stroke Association website. Available at:
. Updated November 24, 2010. Accessed September 20, 2011.
Macpherson G, ed.
Black’s Medical Dictionary
. London, UK: A&C Black Publishers Limited; 2002.