Angiography is a specialized diagnostic procedure used to examine blood vessels and identify narrowing, blockages, aneurysms, or other vascular abnormalities. Depending on the area being assessed, doctors may recommend coronary angiography, cerebral angiography, renal angiography, pulmonary angiography, CT angiography, or other imaging techniques.
How Angiography Works
In catheter angiography, a thin catheter is guided through a blood vessel, usually from the wrist or groin, using X-ray imaging. A contrast agent is introduced to make blood vessels clearly visible on images. CT angiography uses CT scanning with contrast material to create vascular images. The appropriate method depends on symptoms, suspected conditions, and clinical assessment.
When Is Angiography Recommended?
An angiogram may be recommended when doctors need detailed information about blood flow or suspected vascular disease. It can help evaluate blocked or narrowed arteries, aneurysms, and other blood vessel conditions and may support treatment planning.
Preparation and Recovery
Before angiography, patients should inform their doctor about medications, allergies, kidney problems, pregnancy, or previous reactions to contrast material. Preparation may include blood tests, fasting, or medication adjustments. After catheter angiography, patients are observed and should follow instructions about activity and catheter-site care.