Is Your Heart at Risk? Discover the Life-Saving Power of an Angiogram

An angiogram is a vital diagnostic tool to assess blood vessels for blockages and abnormalities, ensuring timely treatment. 

By Mr. Ashutosh Pandey, Editor-in-Chief of "The Inside Khabar."

What is an Angiogram?

An angiogram, also called angiography, is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the blood vessels. It helps doctors diagnose blockages, narrowing, or abnormalities in arteries and veins throughout the body, including the heart (coronary angiogram), brain, kidneys, or legs. Angiograms are performed using a specialized X-ray called fluoroscopy, which captures real-time images.

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How Does Angiography Work?

In an angiogram, a contrast dye (usually iodine-based) is injected into the blood vessels to make them visible on X-ray images. The contrast dye highlights the flow of blood through the arteries and veins, allowing the radiologist or doctor to assess the condition of the vessels.

Why is an Angiogram Performed?

Angiography is used for various purposes, such as:

Diagnosing coronary artery disease (blockages in the heart’s blood vessels).

Identifying aneurysms (weakened areas in the blood vessel walls).

Detecting peripheral artery disease (narrowing of the arteries in the arms or legs).

Assessing blood flow to organs (kidneys, liver, or brain).

Evaluating vascular malformations or tumors that affect the blood vessels.

Types of Angiography

1. Coronary Angiography: Focuses on the heart’s blood vessels.

2. Cerebral Angiography: Looks at blood vessels in the brain.

3. Peripheral Angiography: Studies blood vessels in the arms, legs, or abdomen.

4. Pulmonary Angiography: Evaluates the blood supply to the lungs.

5. Renal Angiography: Assesses the blood vessels in the kidneys.

The Procedure of Angiography

1. Preparation:

You may be asked not to eat or drink for several hours before the procedure.

Medications such as blood thinners may need to be stopped prior to the angiogram.

Blood tests might be done to check kidney function and clotting ability.

You’ll change into a hospital gown, and an IV line will be inserted.

2. During the Procedure:

The procedure is typically performed in a catheterization lab.

The doctor will numb a small area, usually in your groin, wrist, or arm.

A thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the artery and guided toward the area being examined.

Contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and real-time X-rays are taken.

The images are reviewed to identify any blockages or abnormalities in the vessels.

The entire procedure may last from 30 minutes to an hour.

3. After the Procedure:

The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding.

You may be monitored for several hours to ensure no complications arise.

It’s common to experience some bruising or soreness at the catheter site.

Risks of Angiography

While generally safe, an angiogram does carry some risks, including:

Bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site.

Allergic reactions to the contrast dye.

Kidney damage (particularly in those with pre-existing kidney issues).

Blood clots or damage to blood vessels.

Infection (rare but possible).

Heart attack or stroke (very rare, but possible during coronary or cerebral angiography).

Preparation Before an Angiogram

To prepare for an angiogram, you should:

1. Discuss medications: Inform your doctor about all the medications you're taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

2. Follow fasting instructions: Typically, you will need to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.

3. Inform about allergies: Notify your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to contrast dye, iodine, or shellfish.

4. Stop certain medications: You may be asked to stop taking blood thinners or other medications prior to the test.

5. Arrange for aftercare: Since you’ll be sedated, arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

Conclusion

An angiogram is a valuable diagnostic tool that helps doctors assess the health of your blood vessels. While it comes with some risks, it is generally a safe and effective procedure for detecting blockages and other vascular issues. If your doctor recommends an angiogram, ensuring proper preparation and understanding the procedure can help alleviate any concerns and make the experience smoother.