Carotid Arteriogram

A carotid arteriogram is a procedure in which a thin flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through an artery, usually in the arm or groin, which allows the physician to take x-ray pictures of the arteries feeding the blood flow to the brain to evaluate for blockages.

Why are you having procedure (symptoms/indication)? There are several reasons a person might have a peripheral arteriogram, and these include: 

• Patient with known carotid artery stenosis re-evaluation.
• Patient experiencing symptoms of dizziness or passing out episodes with the suspected cause being blockage in carotid artery.
• Patient has had an abnormal screening test such as a carotid ultrasound. 

Prep for the procedure: Do not to eat or drink for 8 to 12 hours prior to the procedure. You will need to make arrangement 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.