Definition
Mesenteric arteriography is an x-ray exam of the blood vessels that supply the abdominal area, including the small and large intestines.
Alternative Names
Abdominal arteriogram; Arteriogram - abdomen
How the test is performed
This test uses x-rays and a special dye (contrast material) to make blood vessels show up on the images.
This test is done in a hospital. You will lie on an x-ray table. You may ask for a sedative if you are anxious about the test.
The health care provider will shave and clean the groin area. A numbing medicine (anesthetic) is applied, and a needle inserted into an artery. A thin flexible tube called a catheter is passed through the needle, into the artery, and up through the main vessels of the belly area and chest until it is properly placed into a mesenteric artery. The doctor can see live images of the area on a TV-like monitor, and uses them as a guide.
Contrast dye flows through the catheter into the blood vessels. X-ray images are taken. The catheter is occasionally flushed with saline solution containing a drug called heparin to help keep blood in the tube from clotting.
Your pulse, blood pressure, and breathing are monitored during the procedure. After the x-rays are taken, the needle and catheter are withdrawn.
Pressure is immediately applied to the puncture site for 10-15 minutes to stop the bleeding. After that time the area is checked and a tight bandage is applied. The leg should be kept straight for an additional 4 hours after the procedure.
How to prepare for the test
You should not eat or drink anything for 8 hours before the test.
You will be asked to wear a hospital gown and sign a consent form for the procedure. Jewlery should be removed from the area being imaged.
Tell your health care provider:
- If you are pregnant
- If you have ever had any allergic reactions to x-ray contrast material or iodine substances
- If you are allergic to any medications
- Which medications you are taking (including any herbal preparations)
- If you have ever had any bleeding problems
Mesenteric arteriography
