Angiogram
An
angiogram is a method of using x-ray images to examine the blood vessels
in your body and when needed, placing a metallic cylinder in the artery
to keep it open. Typically, physicians utilize these procedures to
examine and treat arteries in your brain, heart, abdomen, and legs that
are narrow or blocked.
Angiogram with Multiple Stents
An
angiogram with multiple stents is a method of using x-ray images to
examine the blood vessels in your body and when needed, placing a
metallic cylinder in the artery to keep it open. Typically, physicians
utilize these procedures to examine and treat arteries in your brain,
heart, abdomen, and legs that are narrow or blocked.
Angiogram and Stenting Procedure
An
angiogram with stenting is a method of using x-ray images to examine the
blood vessels in your body and when needed, placing a metallic cylinder
in the artery to keep it open. Typically, physicians utilize these
procedures to examine and treat arteries in your brain, heart, abdomen,
and legs that are narrow or blocked.
Arthroscopic Surgery Needs
A
diagnostic Angiogram is a method of using x-ray images to examine the
blood vessels in your body. Typically, physicians utilize this test to
examine arteries in your brain, heart, abdomen, and legs that are
narrow, blocked, enlarged or otherwise damaged. When the arteries are
the focus of the study, the test can be referred to as an arteriogram.
If the veins are studied, it is known as a venogram.
To create these images, a dye will be injected into your veins through a
thin, flexible tube called a catheter. He or she carefully threads the
catheter into the affected artery or vein from a surgically prepared
location. This location is usually in your groin but can also be in
your arm. This dye, or contrast, allows the blood inside the blood
vessels to appear on an x-ray. Your body will eventually eliminate the
contrast through your urinary system. In Panama, as elsewhere, your
physician will recommend an angiogram to diagnose a variety of vascular
conditions, including:
-
Artery blockages outside your heart, also known as Peripheral Artery
Disease.
-
Vein conditions such as Deep Venous Thrombosis or Pulmonary Emboli.
-
Deformed arteries known as vascular malformations.
-
Arterial conditions of the Kidneys called renovascular conditions.
-
Aneurysms (Enlargements of the arteries)
-
Aortic Arch conditions (Problems with the arteries leaving the
Aorta)
During a diagnostic Angiogram in Panama, it is possible that your
surgeon could actually treat problems that he or she encounters. For
example, a blood clot discovered during the procedure could be
dissolved. An Angiogram can be performed in conjunction with a stenting
procedure to remove blockages, depending on their location and severity.
Preparing for surgery is almost always unsettling. From dealing with
your symptoms, to choosing a surgeon, to worrying about the cost, it can
be stressful. However, at Punta Pacifica Hospital in Panama City,
Panama, we will make every attempt to make your Arthroscopic surgery as
be stress-free as possible.
Prior to Surgery
Any necessary precautions prior to surgery will be outlined for you in
the treatment plan. If you require pre-op therapy, you will receive the
proper instructions. If you are a smoker, you may be asked to stop for
a time prior to your surgery. You might also be asked to refrain from
using vitamin E (in large does), aspirin or anti-inflammatory medicines
since they can lead to increased bleeding during surgery.
The Procedure
Your angiogram with multiple stents will be performed in an operating
room equipped with a specialized x-ray machine. You will receive an IV
to provide fluids and medications. Your surgeon will determine the best
site to insert the catheter, generally entering an artery in your groin
or near your elbow. The site will first be cleaned and sterilized to
reduce your risk of infection.

This
skin will be numbed with a local anesthetic and a tiny opening will be
made to access the artery below. Using a hollow needle, your surgeon
will insert a thin wire through the needle, attach a catheter over the
wire, and direct it to the desired location. X-rays will be taken that
are shown on a video screen to see the catheter as it travels through
your arteries.
Once your surgeon has the catheter in place, the contrast dye will be
injected. The contrast may briefly cause a warm feeling as it enters
your bloodstream. More x-rays will be taken to verify that the contrast
is flowing through your arteries. You may be asked to lie perfectly
still during the procedure to prevent sudden movements from blurring the
x ray pictures. Once all of the necessary x-rays are taken, your
catheter will be removed and pressure will be applied at the insertion
site for 10 to 20 minutes to help stop bleeding.
An angiogram with multiple stents generally lasts about 1 hour if only
x-rays are required. The procedure may take longer if your surgeon
needs to perform any stenting.
After your surgery
After the angiogram with multiple stents, the medical staff will monitor
your condition for around 6 hours. You will be advised to keep the arm
or leg with the insertion site straight to minimize bleeding. You will
be given fluids to prevent dehydration and to flush the dye from your
kidneys. Once any bleeding from the insertion site has stopped and your
vital signs are normal, your surgeon will allow you to leave because
your Panama angiogram with multiple stents is complete!
Once you have been released, you can eat normally, but you should
continue to drink extra fluids for 1 to 2 days. For at least 12 hours
after your angiogram with multiple stents, you should avoid physical
activities such as climbing stairs, driving, and walking, especially if
the insertion site was in your groin. In a day or two you will be able
to enjoy some of the pleasures and delights that Panama has to offer
while you rest and recover.
Risks
An
angiogram with multiple stents is generally very safe. Complications
from an angiogram with multiple stents include bleeding, pain, or
swelling where the catheter was inserted, and pain, numbness, or
coolness in your arm or leg. Bruising at the insertion site is typical
and usually resolves on its own. Rarely, impaired kidney function, or
kidney failure, can occur following an angiogram, especially if you have
already have kidney disease. Also rarely, severe allergic reactions can
occur, especially among people who have had previous allergic reactions
to the contrast dye.
While there is always an element of risk, having an American-trained
surgeon, a professional staff and a world-class hospital make your
Panama angiogram with multiple stents at Punta Pacifica Hospital a safe
and rewarding procedure.