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Angiogram: Diagnosing Peripheral Artery Disease
When it comes to diagnosing peripheral artery disease (PAD), an angiogram provides detailed images of the arteries in your legs, helping to identify blockages or narrowing that could be causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, or cramping. It involves using contrast dye and X-ray imaging to create detailed pictures of blood vessels in order to diagnose PAD. Angiograms allow our specialists to see the exact location and extent of arterial blockages, helping us develop an effective treatment plan for each patient.
Angiogram Candidates
An angiogram is typically recommended for individuals who have the following risk factors and symptoms of PAD.
- 50 years of age or older
- Smoke
- Have diabetes
- Have high blood pressure
- Have high cholesterol
- Individuals experiencing leg pain, weakness, or numbness
- Had previous diagnostic tests that were inconclusive
Benefits of Angiogram
An angiogram offers several benefits for diagnosing and treating peripheral artery disease.
- Provides an accurate diagnosisÂ
- Provides a clear picture of the arteries and any blockages
- Helps determine the severity of PAD
- Reduces the risk of amputation and complications
- Improves treatment planning
Angiogram Preparation
Before your angiogram procedure, you will receive specific instructions on how to prepare. You should be sure to:
- Discuss all medications and supplements you take with your doctor
- Inform your doctor of any allergies, especially to contrast dye
- Fast for 6 hours before the procedureÂ
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to allow easy access to the injection site
- Arrange for someone to drive you home
Find out if you are at risk for Peripheral Artery Disease.
Angiogram Procedure
At American Endovascular, an angiogram procedure is performed in an outpatient setting. The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour and involves the following steps:
- Sedation: A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted.
- Catheter Insertion: A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or arm, and carefully guided to the affected artery.
- Injection: The catheter injects a contrast dye into the bloodstream, making the blood vessels visible on X-ray images.
- Imaging: X-ray images are taken as the dye flows through your arteries, providing detailed pictures of any blockages or abnormalities.
- Recovery: Once the images are captured, the catheter is removed and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. You may need to lie flat for a few hours to ensure proper healing.
The angiogram procedure is generally well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. Most patients can go home the same day, although you will need someone to drive you due to the effects of sedation. It’s normal to experience some bruising or soreness at the catheter insertion site, which typically resolves within a few days.
Interpreting Your Results
The results of your angiogram will be reviewed by our vascular specialists, who will discuss your results with you in detail. Based on the images taken, we can determine the presence, location, and severity of PAD and recommend the most appropriate course of action. Depending on the results of your angiogram, several treatment options may be considered. These may include medications, lifestyle changes, and minimally invasive treatments such as angioplasty and stenting.
Why is an Angiogram for PAD Important?
PAD is a common but serious condition that can lead to pain, difficulty walking, and in severe cases, tissue damage or limb loss. An angiogram is important because it accurately diagnoses PAD, providing clear images of the blood vessels and pinpointing the exact location and severity of blockages.
It also helps doctors determine the most effective treatment options, including lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical interventions. Early diagnosis of PAD using an angiogram can also prevent serious complications such as ulcers, infections, and amputations.
Why Choose American Endovascular for Your Angiogram?
Our team consists of highly experienced vascular experts specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of PAD. We utilize cutting-edge diagnostic tools and methods to guarantee results from your angiogram. Our state-of-the-art technology enables thorough examination of your arteries, which is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
We are dedicated to delivering individualized care that caters to your specific needs and stage of PAD. We ensure your comfort and convenience by creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Our committed team can assist you throughout the entire process, offering guidance, answering your queries, and addressing your concerns.
Angiogram Frequently Asked Questions
You may feel a brief sting when the local anesthetic is administered and some pressure when the catheter is inserted. The injection of the contrast dye might cause a warm or flushing sensation, but the procedure is generally not painful.
Angiogram results can show the presence of blockages and narrowing in the blood vessels. If there is a blockage, your doctor may treat it right away with an angioplasty, a minimally invasive procedure that widens the blocked artery and enhances blood flow.
Initial results are often available immediately after the procedure, and a full report is usually prepared within a few days.
Our Vascular Specialists
Our affiliated vascular specialists are board-certified interventional radiologists in New York and New Jersey who are experts at diagnosing and treating PAD. Our team will take the time to accurately diagnose your symptoms and identify whether or not you have PAD when you schedule an appointment with American Endovascular.
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