An arteriogram is a diagnostic procedure that helps find problems within the arteries that supply blood to certain organs or parts of your body. It is sometimes referred to as a "road map" of the arteries.

Preparing for Your Arteriogram
Your doctor's office will schedule your exam with radiology. The time you are given is the time you should arrive in Deaconess Hospital Patient Registration. Radiology is unable to guarantee an exact time for your exam, as procedure time varies with each patient, but we will do our best to get you in as quickly as possible.

Tell your doctor about any medicines you take, allergies you have, and the specific allergic reactions you've had. Also, make sure to tell your doctor if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, kidney problems, or if you take blood thinners.

You may have liquids and take your normal medications on the morning of your exam unless instructed otherwise. You must have someone drive you home and spend the night with you. Upon arrival in Patient Registration, you will be escorted to the Vascular Care Center where a nurse will provide an assessment. You will need to change from your street clothes into a hospital gown, and an IV will be inserted into a vein in your arm.

During Your Arteriogram
Upon arrival in radiology, a technologist will explain the procedure to you and ask you to sign a consent form. A radiologist (a physician who specializes in medical diagnosis using x-rays) will answer any questions you have about risks or complications.

Our staff will help position you on an x-ray table, where you will have a blood pressure cuff on your arm, a small clip on your finger to measure your oxygen levels, and electrodes on your chest for monitoring your heart rate. You may be given medication through your IV to relax you.

An arteriogram is performed by inserting a catheter (thin tube) into an artery. An artery in your groin is the most common insertion site, and the insertion should be practically painless. While viewing a monitor, the radiologist will direct the catheter to the artery to be studied. A special material will be injected through the catheter to make the arteries show up on x-rays. It is normal to feel a warm or slightly hot sensation as this material is injected.

After a complete look at the artery, the catheter is removed. The radiologist will discuss the results with you and your family, and an official report will be mailed to your doctor. You'll then be escorted back to the Vascular Care Center, where our staff will monitor your condition. You will lie down, keeping your leg straight, for about four hours.

When Released to Go Home:

• Don't drive.
• Don't exercise.
• Take it easy the rest of the day/evening.
• Return to your normal diet.
• Resume all medications unless instructed otherwise.
• Resume normal activities the following day unless instructed otherwise.