What Is a Coronary Arteriogram?
A coronary arteriogram uses injectable dye and X-rays to capture images of your heart. These tests are done in medical facilities, and you will not need general anesthesia. Your healthcare provider may numb the area where the dye will be injected. If you feel nervous or anxious about the procedure, you may want to talk with your doctor about sedative medications that can help keep you comfortable.
Your care provider will insert a small catheter into your artery and then move the catheter to the area of concern. You will not feel the catheter moving in your body. You will be required to lay still on an X-ray table throughout the procedure.
What Can a Coronary Arteriogram Show?
Your coronary arteriogram will provide your healthcare providers with additional information about the function of your heart. Once the dye is injected into the catheter, your provider will be able to use the X-ray images to see how your blood moves through your circulatory system. This can be helpful if your care provider is concerned that you may have blocked arteries. This can also be used to provide more information about tumors in the body or to check for internal bleeding.
Typically, if an issue is found that requires treatment, additional procedures can be done at the same time as your cardiac arteriogram. Depending on your needs, your doctor may insert a shunt to support a damaged vein or perform other medical procedures to preserve your cardiac health.
Schedule Your Coronary Arteriogram Today
If you are living with a vascular disease, we are here to help. At Suffolk Vascular & Vein Center, our care team has more than 25 years of experience treating a wide range of vein diseases. Reach out to us today by calling our office in Port Jefferson Station (631-476-9100), Hauppauge (631-979-0222), or Riverhead, NY (631-591-9003) to learn more about what we have to offer and schedule a consultation.
