Venogram
Key points
- Lower extremity venography is a test used to visualize the veins in the leg.
- Local anesthetic is used, and you may ask for a sedative if you are anxious about the test.
- You will wear hospital clothing during this procedure.
- 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.
Alternative names
Phlebography; Lower extremity venography
Definition
Lower extremity venography is a test used to visualize the veins in the leg.
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy, so they can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray.
Veins are not normally seen in an X-ray, so a contrast material is injected into the vein to make it visible. In this test, the contrast material is injected into the vein of the affected leg.
How the test is performed
This test is done in a hospital. You will be asked to lie on an X-ray table. Local anesthetic is used, and you may ask for a sedative if you are anxious about the test.
A needle is inserted into a vein in the foot of the affected leg so that an intravenous catheter (a short flexible tube) can be inserted. Contrast material is injected into the vein through the catheter. A tourniquet may be placed on your leg so the contrast medium will flow up the deeper veins.
X-rays are taken as the contrast material flows through the leg.
The catheter is then withdrawn, and the puncture site is bandaged.
How to prepare for the test
You will wear hospital clothing during this procedure. You may be asked to sign a consent form for the procedure. Remove all jewelry from the area being imaged.
Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant, if you have allergies to any medication, which medications you are taking (including any herbal preparations), and if you have ever had any allergic reactions to X-ray contrast material or iodine substance.
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:
- 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)
Written and revised by
David Cohen, 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.