Arteriograms

Arteriograms are x-ray pictures of the arteries. These are usually done during a left heart catheterization or a peripheral arteriogram procedure to look for partially blocked arteries in the heart or legs. During a left heart catheterization or a peripheral arteriogram procedure, a small tube (similar to an IV) is inserted into the artery of the arm or groin. Then a catheter is passed into arteries of the heart or legs; special dye is injected to produce the x-ray pictures.

• Why you are having this procedure: Your physician might schedule this procedure for symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg pain that is felt to be due to a partially blocked artery in your heart or legs. 
• Prep for the procedure: Do not to eat or drink for 8 to 12 hours prior to the procedure. You will need to make arrangements for someone to drive you home following the procedure.
• What to expect: Prior to the procedure, you will be given a sedative which will cause drowsiness in order to relax you; however, we will be able to arouse you should it be necessary. The area where the catheter will be inserted is then numbed with a local anesthetic, the catheter is inserted, and the procedure performed. 
• Risks: Complications from this procedure are rare, and the risk of death is very low. Possible risks include: 

1. allergic reaction to the dye which can be treated with medicine; 
2. damage to the kidneys from the dye; 
3. irregular heart rhythms which can be treated with medicine; 
4. bleeding can occur at the site where the catheter is inserted; 
5. although uncommon, blood clots can form around the catheter or clumps of plaque can be knocked loose from the walls of the arteries during the procedure and can trigger a heart attack or a stroke.

• Post procedure instructions/limitations: Refrain from heavy lifting, greater than 5 pounds, for approximately 1 week after the procedure due to possible bleeding from the site where the catheter was inserted. In order to avoid infection, do not take a tub bath until the site where the catheter was inserted is healed. You can usually return to your normal activities over approximately 1 week.
• When to call your cardiologist: You should call your cardiologist immediately and/or return to the emergency department immediately if you experience acute onset of chest pain and/or shortness of breath or if you experience rapid swelling or bleeding at the site where the catheter was inserted.

Miscellaneous: Please follow all the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.