Peripheral Angiography

Peripheral angiography, also known as extremity angiography, is a diagnostic test that uses X-rays and a special dye to visualize the arteries in the arms, hands, legs, and feet, helping doctors identify blockages or narrowed areas. 

Here’s a more detailed explanation:

What it is:

• Purpose:Peripheral angiography is a minimally invasive imaging test used to assess the blood flow in the peripheral arteries, which are the arteries that supply blood to the limbs (arms, hands, legs, and feet). 
• How it works:A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery (often in the groin, wrist, or arm) and a contrast dye is injected through the catheter to make the arteries visible on X-rays. 
• Why it’s done:Doctors may order a peripheral angiogram if they suspect a person has peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is a condition where the arteries in the limbs become narrowed or blocked. 
• Other names:Peripheral angiogram can also be called peripheral vascular angiogram or extremity angiogram. 

Why it’s important:

• Diagnosis:Peripheral angiography helps doctors pinpoint the location and severity of any blockages or narrowing in the peripheral arteries, which can lead to symptoms like pain, numbness, or cramping in the limbs. 
• Treatment planning:The information gathered from the angiogram helps doctors determine the best course of treatment, which may include medications, angioplasty (using a balloon catheter to open blocked arteries), or bypass surgery. 
• Monitoring:Angiography can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for PAD. 

Risks and complications:

• Serious risks are rare:However, potential complications include bruising, bleeding, tenderness, or infection at the puncture site, allergic reactions to the dye, or, in rare cases, injury to the artery.
• Post-procedure care:Patients are usually monitored for a short time after the procedure to ensure there are no complications. 

• Peripheral Angiography | American Heart Association15-Oct-2024 — What is a peripheral angiogram? A peripheral angiogram is a test that uses X-rays and contrast dye to help your health …American Heart Association
• Peripheral Angiogram: Purpose and Procedure – WebMD14-Feb-2024 — A peripheral angiogram is a test that checks for blockages in the arteries that supply blood to your legs and feet or y…WebMD
• What to expect from a peripheral angiography – Reid HealthA peripheral angiography, or peripheral angiogram, is a minimally invasive imaging test to detect blood flow issues and narrowed a…Reid Health
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This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional. Generative AI is experimental.