Carotid Angiography

Carotid angiography is a type of X-ray test. It is used to view the carotid arteries. These are the large blood vessels that supply your brain with blood. The test uses a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. It is passed into an artery in the leg or arm that leads to the carotid arteries. Contrast dye (fluid) is then injected into the catheter. The dye makes it easier to see the carotids on the X-rays. 

How do I get ready for a carotid angiography?

• Tell your healthcare provider about all of the following:
  • Past or current health conditions
  • Allergies you may have, including allergy to contrast dye
  • If you are pregnant, think you could be pregnant, or are breastfeeding 
• Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines you take. You may be told to stop taking some or all of them before the test. Tell your healthcare provider about:
• All prescription medicines
• Over-the-counter medicines that do not need a prescription
• Any street (illegal) drugs you may use 
• Herbs, vitamins, kelp, seaweed, cough syrups, and supplements
• Follow any directions you are given for not eating or drinking before the procedure. If your healthcare provider says to take your normal medicines, swallow them with only small sips of water.
• Arrange for an adult family member or friend to accompany you home.

What happens during carotid angiography?

• You will change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. Your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing will be carefully monitored during the procedure.
• An intravenous (IV) line is put into a vein in your arm. This is to give you fluid and medicines. You may be given medicine through the IV to help you relax (sedative).
• Medicine will be put on the skin at the insertion site to numb it (local anesthesia). The insertion site is usually the groin area.
• A small hole (puncture) is made into the artery.  Then catheter is inserted. Using X-rays, the catheter is then carefully guided through the artery.
• Contrast dye is injected through the catheter into the artery. You may feel warmth or pressure in your legs, back, neck, or head. You will need to lie still as X-rays are taken of the carotid arteries. You may be asked to hold your breath during injections.

• When the procedure is done, the catheter is removed.
• If a closure device is used in the leg blood vessel, a sterile dressing will be put over the site. If manual pressure is used, the provider (or an assistant) will hold pressure on the site. This is so that a clot will form. Once the bleeding has stopped, a very tight bandage will be placed on the site.

What happens after carotid angiography?

While your are in the hospital: 

• You will be taken to a recovery area.
• Pressure will be applied to the insertion site for about 10 minutes to stop the bleeding.
• You may be told to lie flat and keep the leg or arm with the insertion site straight for 6 hours to stop the bleeding. It is very important that you keep your leg or arm straight during this period.
• Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you soon after the procedure.
• You may have some pain at the insertion site. This can be controlled with medicine.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the X-ray dye out of your body.
• Depending on your test results and your medical condition, you will either be discharged home or stay in the hospital.

Once you are home:

• Care for the insertion site as directed by your healthcare provider.
• You should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after the procedure or as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you develop a fever or chills. Be sure to follow any other instructions.
• Follow up as recommended by your healthcare provider.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your healthcare provider if you have any of the following:

• Chills or fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher lasting for 24 to 48 hours, or as advised by your healthcare provider
• Bleeding, swelling or a lump at the insertion site
• Sharp or increasing pain at the insertion site
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Leg pain, numbness, or a cold leg or foot
• Severe headache, visual problems, or trouble speaking
• Any other symptoms your health care provider told you to report based on your medical condition

© The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.