Health Encyclopedia

Arteriogram

Definition

Arteriography is test that uses x-rays and a special dye to see inside the arteries. It can be used to see arteries in the heart, brain, kidney, and many other parts of the body.

The procedure is often called angiography.

Alternative Names

Angiogram; Angiography

How the test is performed

The test is done in a medical lab. The exact procedure depends on the part of the body being examined.

In general, a dye, called contrast material, is injected into your blood stream. X-rays will be taken to see how the dye flows through your arteries. The test can be used to determine if there are any blocked or damage arteries.

How to prepare for the test

How you should prepare depends on the part of the body being examined. The health care provider may tell you to stop taking certain drugs that could affect the test. In some cases, you may be able to eat or drink anything for a few hours before the test.

How the test will feel

You may have some discomfort from a needle stick. Depending upon the type of arteriogram being performed, you may have a variety of symptoms when the doctor injects the contrast material. For example, those who have a cerebral arteriogram may feel a brief flushing across the head.

If you had an IV put into your groin area, you will usually be asked to lie flat on your back for a few hours after the test to avoid bleeding. This may cause some back discomfort.

Why the test is performed

An arteriogram is done to see how blood moves through the arteries, and to check for a blockage. Sometimes, treatments can be done at the same time as an arteriogram.

What the risks are

The risks for this procedure depend on the type of arteriogram performed. You should ask your doctor about the risks before you agree to have the test performed.

In general, risks may include:

Bleed, infection, and pain where the needle and IV (intravenous) line were placed
Damage to blood vessels
Blood clots
Allergic reaction to the dye used
Damage to the kidneys from the dye used (higher risk in those with diabetes)

Review Date:7/17/2006
Reviewed By:Glenn Gandelman, MD, MPH, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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