Aortography
Key points
- Aortic angiography is a study of the aorta, the body's largest artery, using a contrast medium (dye) and a rapid succession of X-ray imaging to show blood flow.
- An intravenous catheter is started in an arm for the administration of medication during the procedure.
- Food and fluids are restricted 6 to 8 hours before the test, which will take place in the hospital.
- The physical and psychological preparation you can provide to your child for this or any medical procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust.
Alternative names
Angiography - aorta; Aortic angiography
Definition
Aortic angiography is a study of the aorta, the body's largest artery, using a contrast medium (dye) and a rapid succession of X-ray imaging to show blood flow.
How the test is performed
A mild sedative is given prior to the test. An intravenous catheter is started in an arm 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 via the arm or leg 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 fluids are restricted 6 to 8 hours before the test, which will take place in the hospital. Admission the night before the test may be required. If not, you will be admitted as an outpatient or inpatient the morning of the procedure. An explanation of aortic angiography and its risks will be provided by a health care provider, and a witnessed, signed consent for the procedure is usually required.
A mild sedative is typically given 30 minutes before the procedure, which may last from one to several hours. You will wear hospital clothing.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide to your child for this or any medical procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For age-specific information on this topic, 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)
- School age test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
- Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)
How the test will feel
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.