Angiogram (1152)

Key points below


Your child’s Angiogram is scheduled for (date) ___________ on (time) _______________ in the Imaging (Radiology) Department at Children’s Wisconsin.

Please stop at a Welcome Desk for a badge and directions to Imaging on the first floor.

What is an angiogram?

An angiogram is an x-ray test that is used to look for problems in the blood vessels. It is done by a pediatric radiologist.  A clear liquid, called contrast, is injected with fluoroscopy (live x-ray). This allows the doctor to see how blood flows through your child’s blood vessels. 

Benefits

What needs to be done before the procedure? 

It is important to follow these special directions for your child. If your child does not follow these special instructions, and eats or drinks anything, the test may be cancelled.

Please note:

How is the procedure done? 

1. Your child may be given sedation medicine. Sometimes IV sedation is used; other times, general anesthesia is used. Your child’s doctor will decide which is better to use for your child. 
2. An IV will be started.  Fluids and medicine may be given through the IV.
3. Your child’s leg will be washed in the groin area with an antibacterial soap.  
4. Medicine will be used to numb the skin where a catheter will be put in.
5. A needle will be used to puncture the groin artery.  Your child may feel some pressure when this is done.   
6. The catheter is put into a blood vessel.
7. The liquid called contrast is injected into the catheter.  
8. X-rays are taken during this injection. 
9. The catheter is removed after the test is done, and a dressing is put over the puncture site.
10. Your child will be monitored during and after the angiogram until they begin to wake up from the sedation.

Some children may be allergic to contrast.  Tell the doctor or nurse before the angiogram if your child has ever had a reaction to contrast.

Risks

How do I care for my child after the procedure?

Test results

The radiologist will look at the films after the angiogram is done.  The radiologist will give the results to your doctor.  Your child’s doctor will discuss the results with you.  

Call 911 if: Your child has heavy bleeding from the puncture site. If this happens, apply pressure directly to the bleeding while you call 911 and while you wait for emergency medical help to arrive.
 

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has:

  • Any redness, swelling, severe pain, or drainage from the puncture site.
  • A temperature over 101º F (38.3C).
  • A hard time waking up.
  • A rash on his or her body.
  • Special health care needs that were not covered by this information.