Angiography is a medical procedure that involves the use of x-ray imaging and a contrast agent to examine blood vessels and arteries. Although it is commonly associated with heart examinations, angiography can actually be performed on any part of the body to assess the blood transport system. For instance, a renal angiogram focuses on the blood supply to the kidneys, while femoral, iliac, and popliteal angiograms evaluate the leg, groin, and lower leg respectively. Additionally, angiography can be utilized to study the arteries and veins in the neck that supply blood to the brain.
Understanding the Purpose of an Angiogram
When your doctor recommends an angiogram, it is because they need to gather crucial information about your blood vessels. During this procedure, a catheter is typically inserted into either the femoral artery or the groin area. The catheter is then directed to the specific area of interest, where a contrast medium is released into the vein or artery. By utilizing this imaging technique, your doctor can identify various abnormalities within the blood vessels, including blockages, inflammation, widening, bleeding, or narrowing.
Simultaneous Procedures: Angioplasty and Stenting
During an angiogram procedure, the primary goal is to obtain a comprehensive map of the body. However, in certain cases, doctors may opt to perform additional tests simultaneously, such as angioplasty and stenting. Angioplasty involves the inflation of a small balloon to widen a narrowed blood vessel or artery. While this procedure is often sufficient, there are instances where a stent, a metal tube, is also inserted to ensure the artery remains open. The entire process is generally painless, and patients typically only require a mild sedative.