Aortic angiography

Aortic Angiography: What Is it Used For?

Aortic angiography is an imaging technique used to diagnose and monitor conditions and diseases of the aorta, which is the main artery in the body. It involves injecting a contrast material (dye) into the aorta and taking x-ray images of the organ to identify areas of narrowing, blockages, and abnormal blood vessel formation. Aortic angiography is used to diagnose diseases such as aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, aortic stenosis, aortic valve regurgitation, and atherosclerosis. It is also used to guide medical and surgical treatment of these conditions.

What to Expect During aortic Angiography

Before the procedure, your doctor will explain the potential risks and complications of the test and answer any questions you may have. You may also be asked to sign a consent form.

Aortic angiography is usually performed by an interventional radiologist in a hospital or other medical facility. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes and involves the following steps:

• You will be asked to lie on a table and an IV line will be inserted in your arm to provide you with medications for relaxation and pain relief.
• Using imaging guidance, the radiologist will insert a catheter (a small flexible tube) into a blood vessel in the groin and thread it up to the aorta.
• Then, a contrast material (dye) will be injected into the aorta and x-ray images will be taken.
• The catheter will be removed and your blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs will be monitored.

Types of Aortic Angiogram

There are two types of aortic angiogram: selective and run-off. In the selective procedure, the contrast material is injected only into the areas of the aorta that the physician wants to image. In the run-off procedure, the contrast material is injected into multiple areas of the aorta. This type of aortic angiogram is more common and is used to detect narrowing or blockages in the arteries. Both types of aortic angiogram are typically performed under general anesthesia.

Risks of Aortic Angiography

Aortic angiography is generally a safe procedure. However, there are some risks, including the following:

• Infection
• Bleeding and/or bruising at the area of insertion of the catheter
• Allergic reaction to contrast material
• Damage to blood vessels
• Damage to the kidneys caused by the contrast material
• Stroke
• Heart attack

Why Is an Aortic Angiogram Performed?

An aortic angiogram is often used as a diagnostic test for conditions and diseases of the aorta, such as aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, aortic stenosis, aortic valve regurgitation, and atherosclerosis. It is also used to guide medical and surgical treatment of these conditions.

When Is an Aortic Angiogram Performed?

An aortic angiogram may be performed if your doctor suspects that you have a condition or disease of the aorta. It may also be performed to monitor the progress of a medical or surgical treatment.