Arteriography

Arteriography is a test for the detection of the blood clots, bleeding spots in the body. The test is performed with the angiogram technique, which uses a fluoroscopy to take the blood flow pictures. A thin flexible tube known as catheter is placed in the groin or just above the elbow and guided or directed to the area to be studied.

Need

An angiogram test evaluates all the possible problems concerned to blood vessels affecting the blood flow. It also detects the changes in the blood vessels of injured organs. It also searches the blood flow pattern to a tumor. It evaluates renal artery or identifies the source of bleeding.

Procedure

A radiologist performs an angiogram with the help of assistant nurse or radiology technologist. X- Ray picture interrupting jewelry is to be removed. According to area to be examined, the cloths are removed. An intravenous (IV) line injection insertion in your arm will allow doctor to give medication or fluid quickly, if necessary. Pulse oximeter measures the oxygen level in your blood. Heart monitoring electrodes are placed on your arms, chest. You have to lie on the X –ray table on your back. With strap, tape, or sandbags the area for the examination is kept in position. Under the genetical and pelvic area, a lead sheet or apron is placed so as to protect them from X-ray exposure. The place of catheter insertion is shaved and cleaned. A contrast material is injected through catheter. The series of rapid pictures is taken at that position and the pictures are developed immediately. The process generally takes one to three hours. After removing the needle, pressure is applied to that site and the bandage is placed to prevent bleeding.

Result

Some results of the test can be discussed just before the test. Otherwise it takes 2 days to give a complete result. The pictures of the blood flow within the artery like aorta or vein such as vena cava are taken with the fluoroscopy in an X- ray test known as angiogram. In normal angiogram, we find the contrast material flowing evenly through the blood vessels and absence of narrowing, bulging, blocking, or other abnormality in the blood vessels. In abnormal results, a narrow spot is found in an artery a clot, fat or calcium deposit indicating decrease in the blood flow. A tumor is detected by an unusual pattern of blood vessels, or a bulge is an indication of weakness in the blood vessel wall (aneurysm). Bleeding in the blood vessel is indicated by the contrast leak out of the blood vessel. A tumor or other growth pushing against them is indicated by the blood vessels in the abnormal position.

Consideration

The following factors may affect the results of the test:

• Not being capable of maintaining steady position or holding breath
• In pregnancy, it is not possible to take angiogram as the baby may get harm as a result of X- ray
• Blockage or blood vessel curving due to atherosclerosis, aging or high blood pressure may interrupt in positioning the catheter.