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1. What is an Arteriogram? Click here to see an arteriogram
An Arteriogram is a special x-ray that enables us to diagnose a blockage or malfunction in the deep blood vessels (arteries) of the body. In order to do the test a long fine tube (catheter) is inserted into the artery at the groin. A special dye (contrast) is injected down the tube and x-ray pictures are taken as the solution passes along the blood vessels. The whole procedure will last approximately one hour.
2. Before the test.
You will normally be admitted to the ward for a few hours beforehand to check out your general health and to prepare you for the arteriogram. On the day of the test you may eat and drink as normal. If you take regular medications please have your usual morning dose. If you are a diabetic on insulin please have your normal food and insulin dose.
On arrival, you will be seen briefly by the doctor, the test will be explained to you and you will be asked to sign a consent form. This is to ensure you understand the test and its implications. Please tell the doctor if you have had any allergies or bad reactions to drugs or other tests. It would also be helpful to mention to the doctor if you have asthma, hayfever, diabetes, or any heart or kidney problems. If you have any worries or queries at this stage don't be afraid to ask. The staff will want you to be as relaxed as possible for the test and will not mind answering your queries.
You will be asked to put on a hospital gown. The test will take place in the x-ray department, a nurse will escort you and stay with you during the test.
3. During the test.
The radiologist (x-ray doctor) will inject a local anaesthetic into the skin at the groin "freezing" the area. After this the procedure should be painless. The long fine tube (catheter) is then inserted into the artery at the groin, and using x-rays to help, the radiologist manipulates the catheter into the correct position. You will not feel the catheter being moved around your body. X-ray pictures are taken whilst the dye is injected down the catheter into the blood vessels. Some injections may cause hot flushing for a few seconds, and an occasional feeling of wanting to pass water. You may also be aware of a bad taste in your mouth. When the test is completed the catheter is removed and pressure will be applied to the groin for approximately ten minutes to minimise any bruising.
4. Afterwards.
You will be taken back to the ward to rest for a few hours. It is important that you lie quietly so that the groin does not bleed again. The nursing staff will check the groin, and foot pulses at regular intervals. Providing all is well you will be allowed home but you need someone with transport to take you home, or to accompany you in a taxi. It is important that you rest completely until the next day to ensure that the puncture site in the groin heals up. If after you get home you notice any swelling or bleeding at the puncture site, you should press on this and call your GP.'s surgery for advice.
5. Side effects
Serious side effects following arteriography are uncommon. Bruising in the groin is the commonest problem and may be significant in about 10% patients. Occasionally an emergency operation to stop the artery bleeding may be required. Very rareley the circulation may become worse following arteriography due to blockage or blood clots forming at the site of puncture in the groin.
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