What is an  Arteriogram

An arteriogram is a diagnostic test  which evaluates  the presence and severity of clogged  arteries in the part of the body   to be examined.  Your  interventional radiologist injects a substance ( contrast dye) through a long, thin plastic tube called a catheter.  The catheter is introduced through a tiny nick in the skin and advanced directly into the underlying artery.  This part of the test is made painless by giving local anesthesia.  When the catheter is in the proper place, the contrast material in injected through the catheter.  Computer enhanced x-rays of  these  arteries can now be obtained.  These x-rays are analyzed by the interventional radiologist and used to determine what sort of treatment, if any, you may need.  When the test is finished the catheter is removed and you are observed in the short procedure unit for approximately six hours after which you will be allowed to go home, to remain at rest until the following day.

 

Patient Instructions

In order to assure the best outcome from this procedure please follow these instructions:

• Please inform our office if you are taking Coumadin, Aspirin or any other blood thinning medication. 
  
  
• Do not eat any solid foods after midnight the evening before the test.
  
  
• You may have clear liquids only by 8am the morning of the test. It may consist of broth, apple juice, tea, coffee or Jell-O. You may drink water up to the time you arrive at the hospital. 
  
  
• Please take your usual medications the morning of the test. If you take Insulin or some other medicine for diabetes, your interventional radiologist
  will adjust those medications if needed.

After the Procedure

You will need a friend or relative to drive you home after the test and to stay with you that evening.  

If you live alone,  you will need to arrange to stay overnight with a friend or relative or have someone stay with you at your home. If this is not possible, the interventional radiologist will arrange for you to stay at the hospital overnight please notify our office and will arrange for you to stay at the hospital overnight. after the test.

If you have any questions, please call our office at 610-252-8281

Top