What are angiograms?

Simply put, angiograms are X -ray images of blood vessels in the body. X -ray images, referred to as angiograms or arteriograms, allow the doctor to determine whether the blood vessel is blocked, tapered, malformed or otherwise prevented or damaged. The procedure that is obtained by angiograms is called angiography.

Angiograms are often required by a doctor when MRI technology does not reveal a suspicion of a problem. The procedure involves inserting a small, flexible tube or catheter into the blood vessel. The blood vessel is then injecting a water -soluble dye that occurs on angiograms, allowing the doctor to see the blood flows through the blood vessel.

angiograms are commonly used to control blood flow to the brain, heart, kidneys and legs. In most cases, angiography can be performed. The doctor provides his instructions for patients before the procedure, but only small preparation is required. The bridge is told not to eat or drink anything before the planned test after midnight.

Before the procedure, the doctor will be administered by a local anesthetic before inserting the catheter. The catheter is then placed in a blood vessel or blood vessels to be X -ray and the dye is inserted. Angiograms are obtained in a number of images, so you can locate the exact location of blocking or malformation. The procedure may take about an hour, then the patient may be observed for a period of time to make sure it does not appear on the dye and there is no bleeding from the injection site.

There are some risks associated with angiograms such as blood clots, allergic reaction to dye and artery damage, but how these risks relate to each patient will differ and be discussed with a doctor. Angiograms can detect information about blood vessels and blood flow, SMEs doctors treat specific health problems. In some cases, it may be necessary to surgically repair the blood vessel. Surgical repair of the blood vessel is called angioplasty.