ANGIOGRAM

 

This fact sheet is designed to give general information about your x-ray. Any individual problems or questions should be directed to your physician.

 

What is an Angiogram?

An angiogram is an x-ray exam that enables the radiologist (a physician who specializes in x-ray interpretation) to study your blood vessels and organs by injecting a contrast material (dye) into your blood vessels so they may be viewed on an x-ray film. This exam will help your doctor in making a diagnosis.

 

The Examination:

1. You should have no food or drink after midnight on the night before the angiogram.

2. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown. It would also be a good idea to empty your

bladder just before the exam.

3. If current laboratory tests are needed, they may be drawn at this time.

4. An IV will need to be in place before you go into the procedure room.

 

While in the Procedure Room:

1. You will be assisted onto an x-ray table.

2. The area where the small incision will be made will be cleaned and shaved.

3. A blood pressure cuff, a heart monitor, and a pulse oximeter will be placed on your finger to

monitor your vital signs.

4. A sterile drape will then be placed on you. It is important for you to keep your arms at your

side unless directed otherwise.

5. Please inform the nurse or physician if you need something for pain or anxiety. We want you

to be comfortable!

 

During the Examination:

1. A small catheter will be inserted into the desired blood vessel via a small incision.

2. You will then be ready for the injection of contrast material (dye), and x-rays will be taken.

Make sure you notify the staff if you've had any problems from the dye from a previous exam

in the past. The dye isn't painful, but you may feel a warm sensation that will last 5-20

seconds as it enters your body. If you feel any discomfort during the exam, notify the

technician. It is of utmost importance that you remain very still during this short period, so the

x-rays will not be blurred.

3. When the procedure is completed, the catheter will be removed and pressure will be applied

over the area for about 10 minutes, so the artery will not bleed. You must then lie flat in bed

for the next 6 hours. If you notice any swelling, bleeding, or pain where the catheter was

placed, you should call the nurse to check the area.

 

Please Note:

1. If you have any history of allergy, especially to shellfish, please tell the physician before the

examination.

2. If you are a woman of child-bearing age and there is a possibility that you may be pregnant,

please bring this to the attention of the radiology staff.

3. If you are an outpatient (planning on going home the same day as the angiogram),

transportation will need to be arranged. We advise you not to drive for 24-hours; therefore, it

is preferred that someone is with you who can drive. Please inform your driver where your 6-

hour recovery will take place.

4. If your home is not within 1 hour of a hospital, it is possible that you will be admitted overnight.

 

Interpretation of Results:

The radiologist will interpret the procedure and convey the information to your physician, who in turn, will discuss the report with you.

 

* If we can be of further assistance to make your visit in our department more comfortable, please don't hesitate to ask any staff member.