Name of the Procedure:

Anesthesia for Diagnostic Arteriography/Venography

Summary

Anesthesia for diagnostic arteriography/venography involves numbing or sedating the patient to ensure comfort while a medical professional inserts a catheter into a blood vessel to take detailed images of the arteries (arteriography) or veins (venography).

Purpose

The procedure helps diagnose conditions related to blood vessels, such as blockages, clots, aneurysms, or malformations. The goal is to provide clear images that can guide further treatment or intervention.

Indications

• Unexplained pain or swelling in limbs
• Suspected blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Vascular malformations
• Evaluation of arterial blockages or aneurysms
• Pre-surgical planning for vascular surgery

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjusting or discontinuing certain medications as advised.
• Blood tests and imaging studies may be required pre-procedure.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.

Procedure Description

1. Patient arrives and changes into a hospital gown.
2. An intravenous (IV) line is started.
3. Anesthesia is administered (local, general, or sedation based on the case).
4. The catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or arm.
5. Contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken.
6. Once imaging is complete, the catheter is removed.
7. Pressure is applied to stop any bleeding, and a bandage is placed.

Duration

Typically takes 1 to 3 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital's radiology department, an outpatient clinic, or a surgical center with imaging facilities.

Personnel

• Interventional radiologist or vascular specialist
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Radiologic technologist
• Nursing staff

Risks and Complications

• Allergic reaction to contrast dye
• Infection at the catheter insertion site
• Bleeding or bruising
• Blood vessel damage
• Rare: blood clots, kidney damage from dye

Benefits

Provides detailed and accurate images of blood vessels, aiding in diagnosis and planning treatment. Results are typically available soon after the procedure.

Recovery

• Monitoring in a recovery area for a few hours.
• Instructions on caring for the insertion site.
• Avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours.
• Follow-up appointment for results and further planning.

Alternatives

• Non-invasive imaging like MRI or CT angiography.
• Pros: No catheter insertion needed.
• Cons: May not be as detailed or suitable for all conditions.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel pressure during catheter insertion, but anesthesia ensures there’s no pain. Post-procedure soreness and bruising at the insertion site are common but manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.