Pulmonary angiography

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Pulmonary arteries

Overview

Risks

Results

Pulmonary angiography

Definition:

This procedure takes X-ray pictures of the pulmonary blood vessels (those in the lungs). Because arteries and veins are not normally seen in an X-ray, a contrast material is injected into one or more arteries or veins so that they can be seen.

Alternative Names:
Pulmonary arteriography
How the test is performed:

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This test is done in a hospital. You will be asked to lie on an X-ray table. Electrocardiogram (ECG) leads are taped to your arms and legs to monitor the electrical impulses of the heart.

The area where the contrast medium will be introduced is shaved and cleansed. The site is usually a vein in the groin. A local anesthetic is given, the vein is punctured, and a needle is inserted into the vein.

A catheter is inserted through the needle, into the vein, up to and through the chambers of the heart, and into the pulmonary artery, which leads to the lungs. This procedure is monitored by a fluoroscope (a type of X-ray that projects the images on a TV monitor).

The contrast medium is then injected into the lung arteries through the catheter, and the X-ray pictures are taken. The catheter is flushed periodically with a saline solution containing a drug called heparin, which will keep blood in the catheter from clotting. The 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After the X-rays are taken, the needle and catheter are withdrawn.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 on the leg at the site of insertion for 10-15 minutes to stop the bleeding. After that time the area is checked and a tight bandage is applied.

The health care provider may advise you to keep the leg straight for an additional 12 hours after the procedure.

How to prepare for the test:

You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for 4-8 hours before the procedure.

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant and if you have ever had any bleeding problems. Report any allergic reactions to X-ray contrast material or any iodine substance and any other allergic reactions you have.

You must sign a consent form. You will be given a gown to wear, and you need to remove any jewelry. You may be given a sedative or a pain pill before the procedure.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

The X-ray table is hard and cold, but you may ask for a blanket or pillow. There is a sting when the anesthetic is given. This does not numb the artery, so you will feel brief, sharp pain as the catheter is inserted.

There is a feeling of pressure as the catheter is advanced. As the dye is injected, you may experience a burning sensation. You may feel tenderness and bruising at the site of the injection after the test.

Why the test is performed:

The test is used to detect blood clots and other blockages in the blood flow in the lung (pulmonary embolism).