Aortic angiography
Alternative names:
angiography of aorta
How the test is performed:
A mild sedative is given prior to the test. An intravenous catheter is started in an arm to allow for the administration of medication during the procedure. A radiologist or cardiologist inserts the catheter through a small incision in an artery in the arm or groin after cleansing the site and numbing it with a local anesthetic. The catheter is then carefully threaded into the aorta through the brachial or femoral artery using X-ray images called fluoroscopy to guide the insertion. When the catheter is in place, dye is injected to make the aorta visible.
How to prepare for the test:
Food and fluid are restricted 6 to 8 hours before the test. The procedure takes place in the hospital. Sometimes, admission the night before the test is required. Otherwise, admission as an outpatient or inpatient the morning of the procedure is required. An explanation of the procedure and its risks is provided by a health care provider. A witnessed, signed consent for the procedure is required. A mild sedative is usually given one-half hour before the procedure. The procedure may last from 1 to several hours. You must wear hospital clothing.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel:
The procedure takes place in a radiology department or cardiac diagnostics laboratory. You are given a sedative to relax prior to the procedure, but you are awake and able to follow instructions during the test. You are on a stretcher for the duration of the test. An incision is made into an artery in your arm, neck, or groin for threading the catheter into the aorta. You are given a local anesthesia to insert the catheter, so the only sensation is one of pressure at the site. Occasionally, a flushing sensation occurs after the contrast media is injected. You may have discomfort from having to remain still for prolonged periods of time.
Why the test is performed:
The procedure is performed when abnormal conditions of the aorta are suspected. Abnormal conditions may include aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, and abdominal aortic aneurysm.
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