Angiogram of the Lung
Lung Angiogram, Pulmonary Angiogram
What To Think About
- A computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) or a magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) may be an option instead of an angiogram. Each of these tests is less invasive than a standard angiogram. Some MRA tests and all CTA tests require an injection of dye. A CTA also involves radiation exposure. For more information, see the medical tests Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA) and CT Scan of the Body. Some doctors may want results from a standard angiogram before doing surgery to treat a damaged or abnormal blood vessel.
- For people with kidney problems, diabetes, or dehydration, steps are taken to prevent kidney damage. Less dye may be used or more fluids may be given before, during, and after the test. If you have a history of kidney problems, other blood tests (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) may be done before an angiogram to make sure that your kidneys are working well. For more information, see the medical tests Creatinine and Creatinine Clearance and Blood Urea Nitrogen.
- In rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair a hole in the blood vessel where the catheter was placed. There is also a substance (called Angio-Seal) that can be used to help plug the hole in the vessel and stop the bleeding. The substance used to plug the hole in the vessel is normally absorbed by the body over several months.
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| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS | Last Updated: December 30, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology | |
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| Topic Contents | |
| Test Overview | |
| Why It Is Done | |
| How To Prepare | |
| How It Is Done | |
| How It Feels | |
| Risks | |
| Results | |
| What Affects the Test | |
 | What To Think About |
| References | |
| Credits | |