Aortic Angiogram

An aortic angiogram is a test that takes pictures of the aorta. This is the main blood vessel that carries blood from your heart to the rest of your body. The test can show problems with your aorta, such as a blockage or an aneurysm (a balloon-like bulge in the wall of the aorta). This sheet explains how the test is done.

Before the Test

Prepare for the test as you’ve been told. In addition:

• Tell the doctor if you:

  • Take any medications. This includes over-the-counter drugs. It also includes herbs and other supplements. You may need to stop taking some or all of them before the test.

  • Are allergic to any medications. Also mention if you are allergic to iodine, contrast fluid (dye), or if you have ever had a reaction to substances used during other imaging tests.

  • Have other health problems, such as diabetes or kidney problems.

  • Are pregnant or may be pregnant.

  • Are breastfeeding.

• Follow any directions you’re given for not eating or drinking before the test.

The Day of the Test

This test takes about 1-2 hours. The entire test (including time to prepare and recover) takes about 4-6 hours. You’ll likely go home the same day.

Before the test begins:

• An IV line is put into a vein in your arm or hand. This line supplies fluids and medications.

• You’ll be given medication (anesthesia) to keep you free of pain during the test. You may receive sedation, which makes you relaxed and sleepy. Local anesthesia is also injected into the skin to numb the area to be worked on (groin or arm).

During the test:

• A small puncture or cut is made in the numbed skin. 

• A thin tube called a catheter is put through the puncture or cut and into a blood vessel.

• The catheter is slowly advanced through the blood vessel and into the aorta. Live x-rays are used to help guide this process. The x-rays are viewed on a video screen.

• Once the catheter is in the correct place, contrast fluid is sent through the catheter. X-ray pictures are then taken of the aorta. The contrast fluid makes the aorta more visible on the pictures.

• When the test is done, the catheter is removed. Pressure is applied to the insertion site to stop any bleeding. The site is then bandaged. 

After the test:

• You’ll need to lie still for 4-6 hours. This lessens the chance of bleeding at the insertion site.

• When it’s time for you to be released from the hospital, have an adult family member or friend ready to drive you home.

Recovering at Home

Once at home, follow any instructions you’re given. Be sure to:

• Drink plenty of water to help flush any remaining contrast fluid out of your body. This may take up to 24 hours.

• Take all medications as directed.

• Care for the catheter insertion site as directed. You may remove the bandage after 24 hours.

• Check for signs of infection at the catheter insertion site (see below).

• Do not bathe or shower until your bandage is removed. If you wish, you may wash with a sponge or washcloth.

• Avoid heavy lifting or other strenuous activities as directed.

Follow-Up

The doctor will likely discuss initial results with you shortly after the test. A follow-up visit may also need to be scheduled.