Angiocardiogram

Description:

Contrast medium is injected through a catheter directly into one of

the heart chambers, coronary arteries, or greater vessels.

Useful for providing information regarding coronary anatomy,

structural abnormalities (occlusions, defects, fistulae), or abnormal

heart valve function.

Indications:

Patients with cyanotic congenital heart disease

Patients with righ-to-left shunts

Contraindications:

Patients with Coagulopathy

Patients with congestive heart failure

Patients with myocardial infarction

Patients with renal insuifficiency

Patients allergic with iodine

Preparations:

Ask patients if he is allergic to iodine (shellfish). If so, notify

health care provider, who may want to prepare patient with oral

steroids and dipenhydramine (Benadryl) before the study.

Be alert for possible allergic reactions to the dye during or after the

procedure. Watch for signs of a delayed reaction after returning to

a room such as, rapid pulse, diaphoresis, shakiness, skin rash or

drop in blood pressure. Dye is irritating, ice packs may be

prescribed to relieve discomfort.

Before angiogram, keep patient in a fasting state, to minimize risk

of pulmonary aspiration should emesis occur.

Post test care:

Record vital signs every 15 minutes

Check for bleeding at puncture or cutdown site.

Check distal extremity for normal color and intact pulses.

Patient may complain of mild headache and discomfort in the groin

or other site depending on route by which contrast medium was

administered. Check for bed rest and special fluid instructions.

Picture/Illustration:

Complications:

Bowel infarction

Alteration in wound healing

Allergic reactions

Renal failure

Vascular damage