Mesenteric arteriography
How the test is performed:
This test is done in the hospital. You will be asked to lie on the X-ray table. The area where the contrast medium will be introduced is shaved and cleansed. The site is usually in the leg. A local anesthetic is given, the artery is punctured, and a needle is inserted into the artery. The catheter (a long, narrow, flexible tube) is inserted through the needle and into the artery. It is then threaded through the main vessels of the abdomen and chest until it is properly placed in the mesenteric artery. This procedure is monitored by a fluoroscope ( a special X-ray that projects the images on a TV monitor). The contrast medium is then injected into the neck area through the catheter, and the X-ray pictures are taken. The catheter is kept open by flushing it periodically with a saline solution containing heparin, which will keep the blood in the catheter from clotting. Your pulse, blood pressure, and breathing are monitored during the procedure. After the X-rays are taken, the needle and catheter are withdrawn. Pressure is immediately applied to the leg for 10 to 15 minutes to stop the bleeding. After that time the area is checked and a tight bandage is applied. The leg should be kept straight for an additional 12 hours after the procedure.
How to prepare for the test:
Your food and fluids will be restricted 8 hours before the test is done. Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant and if you have any bleeding problems. Report any allergic reactions to X-ray contrast material or iodine substance and any other allergic reactions you have had. You must sign an informed consent form. You will be given a hospital gown to wear and asked to remove all jewelry. You may be given a sedative or pain pill before the procedure.
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 X-ray table is hard and cold; you may ask for a blanket or pillow. There is a sting when the anesthetic is given. This does not numb the artery so there will be brief sharp pain as the catheter is inserted. There is a feeling of pressure as the catheter is advanced. As the dye is injected there is a burning sensation. Tenderness and bruising at the site of the injection usually occur after the test.
Why the test is performed:
The arteriography is done after an endoscopy (a procedure using an illuminating instrument to examine the internal organ) cannot locate the source of bleeding in the intestinal system or other studies prove inadequate in evaluating neoplasms (an abnormal growth). It may also be used to evaluate vessel damage after an abdominal trauma.
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