A peripheral angiogram (also known as peripheral arteriogram) is a radiographic or X-ray study of blood vessels that supply the legs, most frequently. Radiographs or X-rays are taken after contrast dye is injected into a catheter (a minute tube) that has been placed into your leg’s blood vessels to identify any blockage, narrowing, or further abnormalities affecting the blood supply to the legs. If a narrowing is indeed found, then you may be a candidate for angioplasty (arterial repair using a balloon).
When is a peripheral angiogram indicated ?
Peripheral angiography is performed for patients with possible blockages in arteries supplying your pelvis, legs, knees, ankles and rarely even your arms. The angiogram determines if there is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD).
How does peripheral angiogram procedure work ?
Angiography starts with putting a long, slim tube (called a catheter) into a blood vessel located in the groin. During catheter placement, you will be given a local anesthetic at the groin site. You will also be given a sedative through your IV line to help you feel as comfortable as possible. Contrast (or radiopaque X-ray dye) is then sent into your blood vessel. You may feel a warm to hot flush spreading all over your body when the contrast dye goes in. X-rays are then taken of the blood flow through your pelvis, legs, ankles and feet while the contrast dye moves through your blood vessels. These X-rays will show exactly where an artery is blocked, narrowed, leaking, or enlarged. If an angioplasty intervention can be done to repair the artery, that procedure can be combined at this point. It is common to feel pressure or even pain at the site that is being worked on. If an angioplasty is done, X-rays will be taken again to show the change in the blood flow and if it is repaired.
What are possible risks of an peripheral angiogram ?
The risks include the following.
- An allergy to the contrast dye, which may cause rashes, blood pressure drop, swelling of the skin, or even unconsciousness.
- Minor discomfort if the groin is not numbed.
- A kidney problem due to contrast dye overload.
- A blood clot that forms around the insertion of catheter and blocks your blood vessel.
- Groin arterial injury due to catheter.
How to find cardiologists for peripheral angiogram procedure ?
Now you can find cardiologists from different hospitals and destinations for peripheral angiogram procedure. You can avail opinions and information from multiple cardiologists, get cost estimates for peripheral angiogram procedure from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a cardiologist for peripheral angiogram procedure.
Find a cardiologist for peripheral angiogram procedure on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
