Arteriography is an X-ray examination (X-ray using contrast) that visualizes arteries (e.g. aorta, renal arteries, brain arteries) that are not visible on a regular X-ray image. How is the test performed? Do you need to prepare for arteriography?

Arteriographyisinvasive examination of arterieswhich is performed in a hospital. Usually, it is referred to people who need to make a decision about possible surgical treatment. Most often it is done:

  • aortic arteriography,
  • arteriography of the renal arteries,
  • cerebral arteriography
  • arteriography of the coronary arteries.

Sometimes, during the examination, angioplasty or stent implantation is performed at the site of the lesion.

Arteriography: preparation for the examination

on the day before the examination, you should drink at least 2.5 to 3 liters of fluid, preferably still water, which should prevent contrast damage to the kidneys. You can take fluids up to 6 hours before the test. The test is performed on an empty stomach, but if you constantly take any medications, take them also before the test - ask your doctor for details.

Arteriography: the course of the study

You will be asked to lie on your back on a special movable table. Your doctor will inject you subcutaneously with a local anesthetic in the area of ​​the vessel being punctured. Then he pricks the vessel with a needle and introduces the so-called a guide (a narrow flexible rod with a diameter of several millimeters) and a catheter. He will infuse contrast through the catheter and then take a series of x-rays (usually around 20). If necessary, he can also give you drugs through the catheter, widen the vessel or close it by creating "plugs" (the so-called embolization).

You must remain still during the examination. When giving contrast, the doctor will ask you to hold your breath for a moment. You may then experience unpleasant ailments, e.g. hot flashes, headaches, dizziness, tinnitus, flashes in front of your eyes. In this case, immediately notify the examining physician.

The test takes 1 to 2 hours.

Angiography: recommendations after the test

After the examination, a pressure dressing is applied at the puncture site of the artery to prevent bleeding and the formation of pseudoaneurysm infuture. The dressing is removed approximately 24 hours after the examination. If the femoral artery is punctured, lie down for 24 hours. After the examination, you should drink at least 2.5 liters of fluids for at least 2 days.

Arteriography: possible complications

  • bleeding at the puncture site
  • pseudoaneurysm
  • acute lower limb ischemia resulting from pressure (dressing)

If you feel your limb getting cold, feel numb, have sensory disturbances, inform your doctor or nurse immediately!

Important

Contraindications for arteriography

  • allergy to iodine contrast agents - a patient allergic to contrast should be specially prepared for the test
  • chronic renal failure
  • coagulation disorders - you need to correct them before the test
  • severe hypertension
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