How Long Does an Angiogram Take?

Wondering how long an angiogram takes? This important test helps check how well blood is flowing in your body and can spot any blockages, particularly in cases of peripheral artery disease (PAD) affecting the legs. Understanding the angiogram procedure, from preparation to recovery, can help you feel confident about your PAD diagnosis and treatment journey. Here’s what to expect from an angiogram for PAD, including timing and recovery.

What Is an Angiogram and Why Is It Used for PAD?

An angiogram is a specialized imaging test that utilizes X-rays and contrast dye to visualize blood flow in the arteries, enabling doctors to pinpoint areas that are narrowed or blocked. When performed on arteries outside the heart, such as those in the legs, it’s called a peripheral angiogram or leg angiogram, and it is an essential tool for diagnosing peripheral artery disease. PAD occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries, restricting blood flow to the legs and feet, and can cause symptoms like leg pain, numbness, weakness, slow-healing sores, or changes in skin color.

Accurate imaging with an angiogram is crucial for PAD diagnosis because symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. The angiogram test allows vascular specialists to pinpoint the exact location and severity of blockages, which is crucial for planning the most effective treatment, whether that involves medication, lifestyle changes, or a procedure to restore blood flow. Angiograms are a trusted method for ensuring patients receive precise, targeted care for PAD.

How Long Does an Angiogram Take for Diagnosing PAD?

An angiogram for diagnosing PAD typically takes between 30 minutes and two hours to complete. The exact duration depends on several factors, including the complexity of your vascular anatomy, the number of arteries being examined, and whether any additional procedures are performed during the same session. Most angiogram procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, and you can expect to spend some additional time at the facility for preparation and post-procedure monitoring. Your care team will keep you informed throughout the process and ensure your comfort and safety at every step.

How is an Angiogram Performed?

An angiogram procedure begins with your care team reviewing your medical history and ensuring you are comfortable, often providing mild sedation to help you relax. The area where the catheter will be inserted (groin or wrist) is cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia. A small incision is made, and a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is gently guided through your artery to the area being examined.

Once in place, a contrast dye is injected through the catheter, making your blood vessels visible on a series of X-ray images. You may feel a brief warm or flushed sensation as the dye is administered. The doctor watches the real-time images to identify any blockages or narrowing in your arteries, which are crucial for planning treatment. If a blockage is found, further procedures, such as angioplasty or stenting, may be performed during the same session. After imaging, the catheter is removed, pressure is applied to stop any bleeding, and you are monitored for a short period before going home the same day in most cases.

What Happens After an Angiogram? 

After your angiogram procedure for PAD, you’ll spend a few hours in a recovery area while your care team monitors your vital signs and the catheter site for any signs of bleeding or complications. It’s common to have some bruising or mild soreness at the insertion site, typically your groin or arm, for a day or two. Most patients can return home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you and should plan to rest for the remainder of the day.

Light activities around the house are usually fine, but avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or driving for several days, or until your doctor gives you the go-ahead. Recovery times can vary, but most people are able to resume normal activities within a week. Your doctor will review your angiogram results with you and discuss any next steps or additional treatment if needed. Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments and contact your care team if you notice unusual pain, swelling, or signs of infection at the catheter site.

When Should I Know the Results of the Angiogram Test? 

In most cases, you will learn the preliminary results of your angiogram test right after the procedure. The vascular specialist can often review the X-ray images immediately, allowing for a quick discussion about any blockages or narrowed arteries that were found. This immediate feedback helps guide next steps in your PAD diagnosis and treatment plan. 

If further analysis or consultation is needed, your doctor may schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the full results in detail. Most patients receive clear answers about their angiogram for PAD before leaving the facility or within a few days. 

What Do the Results of an Angiogram Mean?

The results of an angiogram reveal whether your arteries are healthy or if there are areas of narrowing or blockage that restrict blood flow to your legs. If your angiogram reveals a blockage, it means that plaque buildup is preventing adequate blood flow, which can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, or slow-healing wounds. The degree and location of the blockage help your vascular specialist determine the best course of action for PAD treatment.

Next steps may include lifestyle changes, medication, or minimally invasive procedures such as angioplasty, where a balloon is used to open the artery, or stenting, where a small mesh tube is placed to keep the artery open. In some cases, bypass surgery may be considered to reroute blood flow around the blocked area. Your care team will review your results with you and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore circulation and reduce your risk of complications.

Why Choose American Endovascular for PAD Diagnosis in NYC?

When it comes to diagnosing and treating peripheral artery disease, patients across New York City turn to American Endovascular. Our affiliated team of board-certified vascular specialists is recognized nationwide, not just for their expertise, but for handling even the most complex PAD cases with confidence and care.

We utilize advanced, minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to accurately diagnose peripheral artery disease and create personalized treatment plans that are effective. That means less downtime, greater precision, and a better overall experience.

With several convenient locations throughout New York, it’s easy to get expert vascular care without traveling far. We’re here to make sure patients get the help they need, when they need it. Our commitment to innovation, safety, and compassionate service makes us the trusted choice for PAD diagnosis and treatment in New York City.

Schedule Your Angiogram with American Endovascular in NYC

Schedule your angiogram with American Endovascular today. Our expert team makes it simple; just call your nearest location or request an appointment online. Whether you’re looking for a PAD diagnosis or advanced treatment, our affiliated vascular specialists in NYC and caring staff are here to support you at every step. Don’t wait to get the clarity and care you deserve. Book your angiogram now and move forward with confidence!