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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 Text Continues Below
How the test is performed:
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 After the X-rays are taken, the needle and catheter are withdrawn.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.
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