Angiogram

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A test that looks inside the arteries in the body is called an angiogram also called angiography or arteriography. Arteries are blood vessels that distribute oxygenated blood and other nutrients to all areas of the body. When a person is suspected of having narrowing, blockage, or other problems inside the arteries this procedure is performed to diagnose the severity on the problem. Based on the findings, the Doctor will determine an appropriate treatment for the condition.

A flexible catheter is inserted into an artery. The most common site used is the groin and sometimes the arm is used. When the catheter is already in place a special dye is inserted and then a series of x-ray pictures are taken.

A coronary angiogram, also called cardiac catheterization or heart catheterization, is to view the inside of the arteries of your heart. When patients get to the Hospital with chest pain and after a series of tests are performed such as blood tests, EKGs, echocardiograms, and stress tests, then a coronary angiogram is performed to determine the severity of the blockage in the coronary arteries.<>

The night before the procedure the patient is made NPO (nothing by mouth) and instructions are given. A video of the procedure is also shown. One of the things that the patient is expected to is to lay flat for a few hours after the procedure. The nurse will check vital signs and the puncture site often for a few hours to make sure there is no bleeding at the site.

You may be sent home the same day. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye from your body. You may have something to eat if you think you can tolerate it. Ask your Doctor when you can bathe or shower. Ask him when you can return to work and resume other normal activities. Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several days – no more than 10 pounds. Your puncture site is likely to remain tender, may be bruised, and may have a small knot for a while.

After you go home call your doctor's office if: