Download Angiography - Shawnee Mission Health

WHAT IS ANGIOGRAPHY – CT/MRI?
Angiography is a noninvasive test, performed by using CT or MRI imaging that evaluates arterial blood
flow. Disease of the arteries, such as blockages, malformations and vasculitis can be evaluated by using
these noninvasive tools. Often, an IV contrast injection is used for better visualization.
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF ANGIOGRAPHY?
There is less risk to the patient with this type of exam, compared to catheter angiography or cardiac
catheterization. Some MR angiography procedures can be performed without the use of IV contrast.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR AN ANGIOGRAPHY SCAN?
You will be contacted prior to the exam with specific procedural instructions. It will be necessary to
abstain from taking Levitra, Cialis or Viagra for 24 hours prior to exam time. Prior to your exam, except
for your regular medications, do not eat or drink anything for four hours. Plan to arrive one hour before
your scheduled examination. Tell your technologist if you have any allergies, especially to iodine or X-ray
contrast. If you have these allergies, medication will be prescribed for you to take prior to the exam.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE EXAM?
The exam will take approximately two hours, with most of the time spent on preparation for the scan.
The procedure is much like a standard CT scan or MRI, quick and painless.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE EXAM?
You may immediately resume your normal activities. If you received contrast material, you may be given
special instructions.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions or concerns about your exam, please call 913.676.2505 or e-mail
[email protected].