Why is this procedure done?
Angiography is a special test that looks at the blood vessels inside your body. This is done at the same time as a CT scan. A CT scanner is a tunnel-like machine. You will lie on a table in the middle of the machine. The machine will be able to take detailed pictures of your body. It can look at your bones, organs, muscles, and blood vessels. Your doctor wants this test to look for problems in your body. Angiography can be used to get a better look at your brain, chest, or heart. The doctor may also be looking at your kidneys, liver, or lungs. Almost any blood vessels in your body can be tested with angiography. � �
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What will the results be?
A doctor with special training in reading x-rays will look at the CT pictures. The doctor will be looking to see if there is a problem that needs treatment. Your doctor will get the findings and will talk to you about them. � �
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will talk with you about your history and do an exam. Talk to your doctor about:
- If you are pregnant or nursing.
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- If you weigh more than 300 pounds. The machine has a weight limit capacity.
- You may be given a dye called "contrast " � for this procedure. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to dye or shellfish.
- Your doctor may give you a drug to empty out your stomach and bowels before the procedure.
- Your doctor may ask you not to eat or drink anything a few hours before the procedure.
- Tell your doctor if you have problems with small spaces. You may be given a drug to help you relax.
- You may be asked to take off anything metal. This would include jewelry, watch, hairpins, or hearing aids. You may also have to take out any removable dentures before the procedure.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will likely be asked to wear a patient gown.
- An I.V. will be started in your arm.
- The technician may inject a dye or contrast into your I.V. during the scan. This dye may make your body feel warm when it is injected.
- You will lie on the narrow table of the machine. This table will slowly move into the hole of the machine. It takes pictures from many angles. You will hear noises while the pictures are being taken.
- You may be asked to hold your breath and stay very still for a few seconds while pictures are taken.
- The technician will guide you through the whole process from the next room. The machine has a speaker inside. This way you and the technician can talk with each other.
- The test is painless. It most often takes 20 to 30 minutes to do the test.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may go home after the procedure.
- Have someone drive you home if you are given a drug to relax for the procedure.
- Your doctor may give you special orders if you were given a contrast dye.
- Ask your doctor when the results will be available.
What care is needed at home?
- You may go back to your normal activities after the procedure.
- If you were given a contrast dye, you should drink 6 to 8 glasses of water. Wash your hands after using the toilet.
What follow-up care is needed?
If you have not heard the results of the test within 1 week, call your doctor. The results will help your doctor understand what kind of problem you have. Together you can make a plan for more care. � �
What problems could happen?
- Allergic reaction
- Contrast dye may have bad effects on people with kidney problems.
Where can I learn more?
RadiologyInfo � �
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=angioct � �
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �
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