What is Angiogram

An angiogram is a medical imaging procedure used to examine the blood vessels and identify any blockages, narrowing, or abnormalities in blood flow. It is commonly performed to diagnose conditions affecting the heart, brain, legs, and other parts of the body.

How is a Coronary Angiogram Performed?

A coronary angiogram (used to assess the heart's arteries) involves:

1. A thin tube called a catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin.

2. The catheter is guided to the heart's blood vessels.

3. A special contrast dye is injected through the catheter.

4. X-ray images are taken to visualize blood flow and detect any blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries.

   
   

Why is an Angiogram Done?

Your doctor may recommend an angiogram if you experience:

• Chest pain (angina)

• Shortness of breath

• Suspected coronary artery disease

• Abnormal stress test results

• Heart attack symptoms

• Reduced blood flow to the heart

  
  

Benefits of an Angiogram

• Provides a clear view of blood vessels.

• Helps diagnose heart and vascular conditions accurately.

• Assists doctors in planning treatments such as angioplasty or bypass surgery.

• Can detect blockages before they lead to serious complications.

  
  

Is an Angiogram Painful?

An angiogram is generally not painful. Patients are given local anesthesia at the catheter insertion site. You may feel slight pressure during the procedure and a brief warm sensation when the dye is injected.

How Long Does It Take?

The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, though preparation and recovery may require a few additional hours.

Recovery

Most patients can return home the same day or the following day, depending on their condition and the procedure performed.

In simple terms: An angiogram is a diagnostic test that helps doctors "see" inside your blood vessels and determine whether blood is flowing properly, especially to the heart.