趙啟明醫生醫務所         Dr Leo Chiu, Central Vascular Clinic 

(Invasive studies) Angiogram is a "road map" of the arteries used to plan surgical treatment. Medicine (local anaesthetic) is injected to numb the skin around the groin before the groin artery (femoral artery) is punctured. Through the puncture needle a wire is passed into the artery. A small tube (catheter) is passed over the wire and is guided into the artery. Under x-ray guidance the catheter is steered to its intended destination. Liquid that shown up under x-ray (contrast) is injected through the catheter into the artery. As the contrast medium flow along with blood a series of x-ray pictures are taken to reveal the contour of the inside and the branches of the artery. At the end of the procedure the catheter is removed and pressure applied over the puncture site in the groin for 10 minutes until the artery stops bleeding. The overall risk of arteriogram is low. The risks are divided into two categories: 1. At the puncture site: Some bruising is common Very rarely significant bleeding from the artery or blockage of the artery can occur The risk of requiring a remedial operation is less than 1% 2. Related to the contrast The chance of allergic reaction to the X-ray contrast. 1 in 3000.  Reaction may be severe and require urgent treatment X-ray contrast can affect the kidney function. Those at risk should have special precautions. ► Back to top