Angiography

Angiography is an X-ray exam of the arteries and veins to diagnose blockages and other blood vessel problems.  Sometimes this is also called an angiogram.

During the procedure a catheter (small, thin hollow tube) is inserted into an artery or vein through a small nick in the skin about the size of the tip of a pencil. Radiographic contrast material, or dye, is injected into the artery or vein through the catheter. The dye causes no discomfort but some individuals may experience sensation of flushing, hotness, shivering or a slightly metallic taste in the mouth.

None of these symptoms are serious but do tell us if you experience them. The contrast material is iodine-based; some people have a known allergy to iodine, shellfish, or x-ray dye. If are allergic to these, let your doctor know before the test. Medication can be given to prevent an allergic reaction.

One of the most common reasons for an angiogram is to see if there is a blockage or narrowing in a blood vessel that may interfere with the normal flow of blood through the body. In many cases, the Cardiologist  can treat a blocked blood vessel without surgery at the same time the angiogram is performed.