Peripheral Angiography

Peripheral angiography is a test that uses X-ray and dye (contrast material) to map the blood vessels (arteries) in your lower body, legs, and arms. This map can show where blood flow may be blocked.

Talk with your doctor about the risks and possible complications of angiography.

Get ready for the peripheral angiography as follows:

• Tell your doctor about all medicines you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines. It also includes vitamins, herbs, and other supplements.
• Tell your doctor about any allergies you may have.
• Follow any directions you're given for not eating or drinking before the test. If your doctor says to take your normal medicines, swallow them with only small sips of water.
• Arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home.

Here is what to expect:

• You may get medicine through an I.V. (intravenous) line to relax you. You're given an injection to numb the insertion site. Then, a tiny skin cut (incision) is made near an artery. This is usually in your wrist or groin, depending on what your doctor thinks is safest for you. The wrist is used more often now because it heals faster and has less risk of bleeding.
• Your doctor inserts a thin tube (catheter) through the incision. They then thread the catheter into an artery while looking at a video screen.
• Contrast dye is injected into the catheter to confirm position. You may feel warmth or pressure in your legs and back. You lie still as X-rays are taken. The catheter is then taken out.

You'll be taken to a recovery area. A doctor will apply pressure to the site for about 10 minutes. If the access was in your groin, you will need to lie flat for several hours. If it was in your wrist, you may be able to sit up sooner. Your doctor will tell you what to do.They will discuss the results with you soon after the test.

On the day you get home, don't drive, exercise, walk, or use stairs. Don't bend or lift anything. Your doctor may give you additional care instructions.

Contact your doctor right away if:

• You notice a lump or bleeding at the insertion site, but you can control it with firm pressure.
• You feel pain at the insertion site.
• You don't urinate in 8 hours.

Call 911 right away if you:

• Notice a lump or bleeding at the insertion site, and you can't control it with firm pressure.
• Become lightheaded or dizzy.
• Have leg pain or numbness, or your leg becomes cold or blue.