LAB TEST
Extremity angiography
Extremity angiography is a test used to see the arteries in the hands, arms, feet, or legs. It is also called peripheral angiography. Angiography uses x-rays and a special dye to see the insides of the arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart.
How the Test is Performed
This test is done in a hospital or specialized procedure unit. You will lie on an x-ray table. You may ask for some medicine to make you sleep and relax (sedative). During the test, your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing will be checked. The health care provider will shave and clean an area, most often in the…
How to Prepare for the Test
You should not eat or drink anything for 6 to 8 hours before the test. You may be told to stop taking certain medicines, such as aspirin or other blood thinners for a short while before the test. Never stop taking any medicines unless told to do so by your provider. Make sure your provider knows about all the…
How the Test will Feel
The x-ray table is hard and cold. You may want to ask for a blanket or pillow. You may feel some stinging when the numbing medicine is injected. You may also feel some pressure as the catheter is moved. The dye can cause a feeling of warmth and flushing. This is normal and most often goes away in a few seconds. You…
Why the Test is Performed
You may need this test if you have symptoms of a narrowed or blocked blood vessel in the arms, hands, legs, or feet. The test may also be done to diagnose: Bleeding Swelling or inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis)
Normal Results
The x-ray shows normal structures for your age.
What Abnormal Results Mean
An abnormal result is commonly due to narrowing and hardening of the arteries in the arms or legs from plaque buildup ( hardening of the arteries ) in the artery walls. The x-ray may show a blockage in the vessels caused by: Aneurysms (abnormal widening or ballooning of part of an artery) Blood clots Other diseases of…
Risks
Complications may include: Allergic reaction to the contrast dye Damage to the blood vessel as the needle and catheter are inserted Excessive bleeding or a blood clot where the catheter is inserted, which can reduce blood flow to the leg Heart attack or stroke Hematoma, a collection of blood at the site of the needle…
References
American Heart Association website. Peripheral angiography. www.heart.org/en/health-topics/peripheral-artery-disease/diagnosing-pad/peripheral-angiogram . Updated February 12, 2024. Accessed September 6, 2024. Harisinghani MG, Chen JW, Weissleder R. Vascular imaging. In: Harisinghani MG, Chen JW, Weissleder R, eds.…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 18/10/2022).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.