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These days, we very commonly hear about angiography, but are you aware of what it is, how it is done, why it is done and what are the risks involved in this medical procedure? This article is an attempt to answer all the frequently asked questions regarding angiography. Angiography is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays to create images of blood vessels. It is used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Continue reading and know all about this medical procedure.
How is Angiography Performed?
The patient is sedated or given local anaesthesia. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the groin or arm. The catheter is then threaded through the blood vessels to the area of interest. A dye is injected through the catheter, which makes the blood vessels visible on X-rays. If you have any doubts, feel free to contact us now.
Types of Angiography
There are two main types of angiography:
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Conventional Angiography
This is the traditional type of angiography. It uses X-rays to create images of blood vessels.
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Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
CTA uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of blood vessels.
Risks Involved in Angiography
Angiography is a safe procedure, but there are some risks involved, including:
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Bleeding
This is the most common risk associated with angiography.
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Infection
There is a small risk of infection at the site where the catheter is inserted.
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Reaction to the Dye
Some people may have a reaction to the dye used in angiography. This can cause symptoms such as hives, nausea, and vomiting.
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Stroke
There is a very small risk of stroke associated with angiography.
Consult with our best doctors to get the finest treatment at the top cardiology hospital in Patiala.
Benefits of Angiography
The angiography benefits outweigh the risks for most patients. Angiography can help doctors diagnose and treat a variety of conditions that can be life-threatening. Here are some of the benefits of angiography:
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Diagnosis
Angiography can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
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Treatment
Angiography can also be used to treat a variety of conditions, such as blockages in blood vessels and narrowing of blood vessels.
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Planning
Angiography can be used to plan other procedures, such as stent placement and balloon angioplasty.
If you are considering angiography, talk to an expert interventional radiologist in Patiala about the angiography risks and benefits. Your doctor can help you decide if angiography is the right procedure for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angiography
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How should I prepare for Angiography?
Following are some tips on how to prepare for your angiography procedure:
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Tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. Your doctor might advise you to not consume them a day or two before the procedure.
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Do not eat or drink anything for 6-8 hours before your procedure.
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Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove.
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What should I expect after Angiography?
After angiography, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored for several hours. You may experience some discomfort at the insertion site of the catheter, but this should resolve within a few days. You should also expect to have some bruising and swelling at the insertion site. General guidelines to follow after angiography include:
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Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye out of your system.
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Avoid strenuous activity for a few days.
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Monitor the insertion site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge.
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How long does this Procedure last?
Angiography might take 1 or 2 hours to finish.
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Is angiography a Painful Procedure?
Angiography is generally not a painful procedure. You may feel some discomfort when the catheter is inserted into your blood vessel, but this should be brief. After the procedure, you may experience some bruising and soreness at the insertion site, but this should resolve within a few days. You may also feel a warm sensation when the dye is injected, but this should also be brief. Speak to your cardiologist in Patiala if the discomfort persists.
