Aortograms

What to expect during an Aortogram

During an Aortogram, you will have an IV placed so you can receive medication during the exam, and bloodwork may be done if it hasn’t previously.

Your groin area will be shaved and someone will check the pulses in your groin/feet. Your skin will be prepped with a solution and you will then be covered with a sterile drape.

The doctor will inject numbing medicine into your skin and after the skin is numb, a needle will be placed followed by specialty wire and tubing.

A catheter will then be placed in the blood vessels of your abdomen and a series of pictures of your arteries will be taken. The contrast dye may make you feel warm for a short time while it is being injected.

After the radiologist has the necessary information, the catheter will be removed and pressure will be applied to close the small hole in the artery.