Also known as: Peripheral arteriogram
Duration: About 30 minutes (or longer depending on the complexity)
A peripheral angiogram is a test used to visualize arteries of the legs and arms with dyes and x-ray imaging. It can show areas of stenosis/narrowings, blocks, and is useful to assess the severity of peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Uses:
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Preparing for the test:
Download Pre Test Instructions
How it is performed:
- A mild sedative is given so that you can relax while you remain awake during the procedure.
- You will be connected to a heart monitor and an intravenous (IV) line will be placed in your arm.
- First, a diagnostic catheterization is performed to check for any blocks in the peripheral arteries. A thin, long tube called a catheter is placed in either your arms, legs, or groin and is monitored by an x-ray camera until it reaches the targeted artery.
- A contrast dye is then infused so that the arteries can be visualized.
- If an artery is blocked, you may require a balloon angioplasty to open it up.
After the test:
Download Post Test Instructions
Show references
Leiner T, Carr JC. Noninvasive Angiography of Peripheral Arteries. 2019 Feb 20. In: Hodler J, Kubik-Huch RA, von Schulthess GK, editors. Diseases of the Chest, Breast, Heart and Vessels 2019-2022: Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging [Internet]. Cham (CH): Springer; 2019. Chapter 20. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553864/ doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-11149-6_20
Horehledova B, Mihl C, Milanese G, et al. CT Angiography in the Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease Feasibility of an Ultra-Low Volume Contrast Media Protocol. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol. 2018;41(11):1751-1764. doi:10.1007/s00270-018-1979-z
Pollak AW, Norton PT, Kramer CM. Multimodality imaging of lower extremity peripheral arterial disease: current role and future directions. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging. 2012;5(6):797-807. doi:10.1161/CIRCIMAGING.111.970814
