An angiogram, or arteriogram, is a series of X-rays taken of the arteries after an injection of contrast dye, making the blood vessels visible. After contrast is injected into an artery, the physician can examine the vessels for any unusual narrowing or blockages.
Once you arrive at our office, you will check in with the receptionist at the front desk and they will inform the RN of your arrival. The nurse will take you into our procedure center to prepare you for the procedure. They will review your paperwork, take your vital signs, prepare your surgical site, and place an IV line in your arm. This IV allows us to give you fluids and medications during the procedure. You will then be taken into the procedure room where the physician will administer a local anesthetic that will numb the area where he will work. He will make a tiny puncture to reach the desired artery in your groin. Your physician will place a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into your artery. He will then inject you with contrast (dye), making the blood flowing inside the artery visible. Depending on what is found during your procedure, your physician may be able to treat your problem right away. He may be able to open a narrowing or blockage using either a balloon, a laser, or an orbital bur. He can also place a metal cage, called a stent, inside your artery to make sure it stays open. The entire procedure takes approximately 1-2 hours. You will need to stay 3 hours after the procedure to make sure that there is no bleeding and that there is no reaction to any medication that was given.
