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An angiogram or angiography is a minimally invasive procedure that uses X-rays to view the blood vessels (arteries and veins). When used to view the blood vessels leading to the brain, the procedure is called a cerebral angiogram.
Interventional radiologists use angiograms to more accurately diagnose abnormalities in the blood vessels, such as narrowing or blockages. An angiogram is sometimes performed after another diagnostic test, e.g., a CT scan, has already detected an abnormality. The results of an angiogram will inform further treatment.
What can I expect during the procedure?
The procedure is performed on an X-ray table. Your groin area will be shaved and cleaned, and drapes will be placed over you. A local anesthetic is then injected into the area, which may cause a slight pinch and/or some burning from the medication. After that, you should feel no pain. The doctor will insert a catheter (a long, narrow flexible tube) into the groin area and navigate it to the artery or arteries being explored. When the catheter is in place, a contrasting dye is injected. You may feel heat or a warm sensation in your head when the dye is injected. The dye allows the interventional radiologist and his team to view and take pictures of the blood vessels through X-ray imaging. Although you will be awake during the procedure, an anesthesiologist may give you medication to relax you. The technologist, nurse and doctors will talk to you at different times during the procedure to make sure you are comfortable. You will be asked to remain very still during the angiogram, as this will improve the results of your X-ray images and minimize the length of the procedure.
An angiogram typically lasts from one to two hours, and you can usually go home the same day.
Your Lahey health care team will answer all of your questions and talk to you in detail about what to expect before, during and after your procedure.
