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Vascular & Thoracic Associates, Ltd. 870 36th Avenue Moline, IL 61265 (309) 764-9162 Fax (309) 764-9471 Angiogram Instructions Dear Patient: By now, you should be aware that you are going to be scheduled for a test called an "angiogram." This is a test, administered by a physician, used to assess very accurately blockages and other abnormalities of the arteries. There are many different types of angiograms, such as Carotid, Lower Extremity, Aortic, and Cardiac. However, they all share common features of which you should be aware. The procedure is performed in a hospital by a physician. Generally, you should take all your usual medications in the morning and have a very light breakfast such as jello or orange juice. A few medications are dangerous to take near the time of angiography and need to be held for three (3) days prior to the angiogram. These include Coumadin and Glucophage. Also, if you have a known contrast allergy from any prior test, you should notify the physician performing the test. Prior to the test, you will be required to have a blood sample drawn. This measures your current kidney function and the ability of your blood to clot normally. When you get to the hospital, you will be admitted to the day procedure area and given a hospital gown and have an IV started. The angiogram is done in the x-ray area, and once you are transported, you will be asked to lay on an x-ray table. Be sure you urinate prior to the test as the test may take sixty (60) minutes. In addition, you will be required to lie flat for four (4) hours after the test is completed. During the test, you will be given a sedative in the IV solution which should make you comfortable. Novacaine is gently injected into the skin of your upper leg area and a neddle is placed into the artery of your leg. This is followed by a very small tube through the needle which is advanced under x-ray guidance to the area of interest. You will be asked to hold very still, and contrast is injected. Sometimes, you may get a warm sensation with the injection, but it is not terribly uncomfortable. After the test is completed, the needle and tube are removed and firm pressure is held on the spot for fifteen (15) minutes. Then you are moved back to your room where you will be fed and monitored for four (4) hours prior to discharge. You should have someone drive you home as you will still be groggy from the sedation. Also, you will need to follow up the following week with the physician who ordered the angiogram as the films have to be studied prior to interpretation. Generally, the day after the angiogram, you should remove the band-aid from the leg area, shower, and resume all your normal activities. Any bleeding or swelling should be called to your doctor. You are responsible for being sure you are not taking Glucophage, Coumadin, or any other blood thinner for three (3) days prior to the test. Any allergies to contrast or anesthetics have to be noted by your doctor. Complications of Angiography Angiograms are common and safe procedures, but occasionally undesirable outcomes do occur. Most are temporary or minor. The following deserve special attention. Please sign here to acknowledge that you have received this form and to indicate that you will read it prior to any testing. ___________________________________________ |
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