What is angiography?

Angiography is the x-ray study of the blood vessels. During the angiography, the doctor inserts a thin tube ( catheter ) into the artery through a small nick in the skin about the size of the tip of a pencil. A contrast agent is injected to make the blood vessels visible on the X-ray.

What is the purpose of test?

1. Vascular disease: Aneurysms, blood vessel malformations.
2. Locating the source of bleeding.
3. Blood supply of tumors.
4. For surgeons to plan an operation or to choose the best surgical procedure.

How dose the patient prepare?

1. Admission.
2. Fast four hours prior to the procedure.
3. If the arterial puncture is to be made in the armpit or groin area, shaving may be required.
4. A sedative may be administered to relax the patient for the procedure.
5. Prior to the angiography procedure, the patient will be briefed on the details of the test, the benefits and risks, and the possible complications involved. She will also be asked to sign a form to the effect that she has been informed about the above-mentioned and consents to the procedures.

What are the complications and contraindication?

1. Hemorrhage or hematoma.
2. Arterial thrombus.
3. Infection and damage at the puncture site.
4. False aneurysm : rare
5. Contraindication : tendency to bleeding and allergy to contrast media.

Aftercare 

1. Bed rest for 24 hours and keep the punctured leg straight with compression of a sand bag for 8 hours to prevent bleeding
2. You can begin to eat something if you don’t feel nausea 2 hours after the procedure.
3. The patient's blood pressure and vital signs will be monitored and the puncture site observed closely.