What is angiography?

Angiography is an x-ray examination of your arteries. An Interventional Radiologist places a catheter (a small tube) into one of your arteries and injects contrast dye into the vessel while taking x-rays of the area. The contrast makes the artery visible on the x-rays.

Why do I need an angiography?

A blockage of an artery can be one of the most common reasons for an angiography. An angiogram can tell where the artery is blocked, how severe it is and what is causing it. Common causes could be a blood clot or atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).

What is an angiogram and does it hurt?

An angiogram has three major steps: insertion of a small catheter (plastic tube) into your body, injection of contrast dye into an artery while x-ray images are obtained and removal of the catheter. You will be given a local anesthetic for the catheter insertion and will just feel pressure. Removal of the catheter does not hurt; however, pressure will be placed on the site to stop the artery from bleeding. The angiogram usually takes one to two hours to complete.

How do I prepare for my angiogram?

Your doctor or nurse will provide specifics, otherwise:

Do not eat any solid food after midnight the night before your procedure. You may have clear fluids. If you are allergic to contrast (x-ray contrast dye) or iodine, let your doctor know as soon as possible. Do not smoke for at least 24 hours before your angiogram. Bring all your medications with you. Most medications can be continued, however, if you take the blood thinner Coumadin, please tell your doctor so it can be stopped.

If you are having the procedure as an outpatient, you will stay in the hospital for 4-6 hours after your angiogram. Have someone else drive you home after your procedure. Relax after you return home for at least 24 hours. Drink plenty of fluids, resume your regular diet, keep the bandage on your catheter insertion site for a day and do not take a hot bath or shower for at least 12 hours.