Peripheral Angiography

What Is a Peripheral Angiogram?

A peripheral angiogram is a test that uses X-rays and dye to find narrowed or blocked areas in one or more arteries that supply blood to your legs.

The procedure usually starts with a needle put into the femoral (groin) artery. After access is established, catheters (thin tubes) and wires are threaded through the arterial system to a specific area of interest or throughout the entire body. As a contrast agent (iodine dye) is injected, X-ray images are taken to let your vascular surgeonview the flow of the dye and identify blockages.
 

Why Is a Peripheral Angiogram Needed?

Peripheral angiogram is used when there is reason to believe that blood is not flowing well in the arteries leading to your legs or, in rare cases, to your arms.

The angiogram helps if a surgical procedure, peripheral angioplasty, is needed to open the blocked arteries.