Peripheral Artery & Vein Angiography

What is a Peripheral Artery & Vein Angiography?

Peripheral Artery & Vein Angiography is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to visualize the blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the body, excluding those of the heart and brain. This procedure involves the use of X-ray imaging and a contrast dye to highlight the blood vessels, allowing physicians to assess blood flow and identify any blockages, narrowing, or other vascular abnormalities.

Why is the Procedure Performed?

The primary reasons for performing a peripheral angiography include:

• Diagnosing peripheral artery disease (PAD), where the arteries that supply blood to the limbs are narrowed.
• Evaluating venous conditions, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or chronic venous insufficiency.
• Identifying the location and severity of blockages or narrowing in the arteries and veins.
• Planning for interventions, such as angioplasty or vascular surgery, to restore blood flow or address venous issues.

How is the Procedure Performed?

Peripheral angiography is typically performed in a hospital or ambulatory surgery center equipped with specialized X-ray equipment. The procedure involves the following steps:

• Preparation: The patient is usually awake but may be given medication to help relax. The area where the catheter will be inserted, often the groin or arm, is cleaned and numbed.
• Catheter Insertion: A small incision is made, and a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted into the artery or vein. Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated to the area being examined.
• Contrast Dye Injection: Once the catheter is in place, a contrast dye is injected through it and X-ray images are taken. The dye highlights the blood vessels, showing any abnormalities.
• Completion: After the imaging is complete, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. The patient is then taken to a recovery area.

What are the Risks and Benefits of the Procedure?

• Benefits:
  • Provides detailed images of the blood vessels, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Can help prevent more serious conditions by identifying vascular issues early.
  • Minimally invasive with a relatively short recovery time.
• Risks:
  • As with any procedure involving catheter insertion and contrast dye, there are risks, including bleeding at the catheter site, infection, allergic reaction to the dye, damage to the blood vessels, and, in rare cases, kidney damage (particularly in patients with pre-existing kidney issues).
  • There is also a small risk of radiation exposure from the X-ray images.

Preparing for Peripheral Artery & Vein Angiography

What to Expect During the Procedure

• During the Procedure: You will be awake but may receive medication to help you relax. The area where the catheter will be inserted is numbed with local anesthesia. You may feel pressure but should not experience pain. The procedure typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the study.
• Imaging and Dye: As the contrast dye is injected through the catheter, you might feel a warm sensation. Real-time X-ray images are taken to visualize the blood flow and identify any abnormalities.

Pre-op Instructions

• Fasting: You will likely be instructed to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure to ensure your stomach is empty.
• Medication: Discuss all your medications with your doctor. You might need to adjust or stop certain medications, especially those that affect blood clotting.
• Preparation: Shower with antibacterial soap the night before or the morning of your procedure to minimize the risk of infection.

Medications to Avoid Before the Procedure

• Blood Thinners: Your doctor may advise you to temporarily stop taking blood-thinning medications to prevent excessive bleeding during the procedure.
• Diabetes Medications: If you take medication for diabetes, you may need to adjust your dosage due to fasting.

What to Bring to the Surgery Center

• Photo ID and Insurance Information: Bring any necessary identification and insurance cards.
• List of Medications: Include all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking.
• Emergency Contact Information: Have the name and phone number of a friend or family member who can be contacted if needed.

What to Expect After the Procedure

• Immediate Recovery: You will be monitored in a recovery area for a few hours to ensure there are no immediate complications, such as bleeding from the catheter insertion site.
• Discharge Instructions: Before leaving, you'll receive specific instructions on how to care for the insertion site, signs of complications to watch for, and when to follow up with your doctor.

Post-op Instructions

• Activity: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a period specified by your doctor, usually 24-48 hours.
• Incision Care: Keep the catheter insertion site clean and dry. You may be advised on when it's safe to shower or bathe.

Recovery Tips

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast dye from your body, unless otherwise directed.
• Observation: Pay attention to how you feel and monitor the insertion site for signs of infection or unusual symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• Signs of Infection: If you notice redness, swelling, increased pain, or discharge at the catheter insertion site, contact your healthcare provider.
• Severe Pain or Discomfort: Any new, severe pain or discomfort in the area where the catheter was inserted should be reported immediately.
• Changes in Limb Sensation: Alert your doctor if you experience any changes in sensation, such as numbness or tingling in the limb used for the catheter insertion.