Ambulatory Procedure Center

Angiogram

What Is It?

Angiography is a procedure done using contrast dye to examine the blood flow to a specific area of the body. It allows the doctor to see if blood flow is adequate or if a blockage is present. In some cases, attempts can be made to repair damaged blood vessels.

How Do I Prepare?

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before your procedure.
• Any medication your doctor has told you to take may be taken with a small amount of water.
• If you are taking medication to thin your blood (e.g., Coumadin, Warfarin, Plavix, or aspirin), you should check with your doctor about stopping these medications before the test. You will be asked to have a blood test the day before or the day of the procedure to check how thin your blood level is.
• Call your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to x-ray dye or intravenous contrast dye.
• Be sure to arrange transportation. Someone must stay with you at the hospital until discharge and drive you home. Transportation will be verified before the procedure. You may use a taxi cab for your transportation only if you have a person accompanying you other than the taxi cab driver. Your procedure may be cancelled if these arrangements are not made.

What Happens During the Procedure?

• Consent is signed.
• You will be lying flat for the entire procedure.
• You may be given medication to help you relax during the test, but you will be awake for the entire procedure.
• Medication is injected to numb the area and minimize any discomfort.
• A small needle is inserted into an artery in your groin or arm and a catheter is placed into the artery.
• Contrast dye is then injected into the artery. After the procedure is finished the catheter is removed and pressure is applied to the area for 15-20 minutes.
• The procedure usually takes 1-2 hours and recovery time is 4-6 hours.
• You may be admitted to the hospital for observation depending on the results of the test.