Mesenteric arteriography

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 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 warm, flushing sensation. Tenderness and bruising at the site of the injection may occur after the test.

Why the test is performed:

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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 (abnormal growths). It may also be used to evaluate vessel damage after an abdominal trauma.

If a site of active bleeding is identified, metallic coils or special chemicals and foams can be placed into the feeding (source) artery, in order to block it off and prevent further bleeding. Similarly, vessels feeding cancers may be blocked to help reduce tumor size prior to surgery and chemotherapy or radiotherapy.