The purpose of a pulmonary arteriogram is to diagnose a blood clot in the pulmonary circulation system. The procedure time is 30 to 45 minutes. The procedure is performed as follows:
- The patient is taken to IPU to be shaved, prepped, have IVs placed and have laboratory tests performed. A catheter will be placed in the femoral vein and fed into the right and left pulmonary arteries, and a series of pictures will be taken during contrast injections.
- Pulmonary pressures may be measured before X-rays are taken.
- The sheath will be removed and pressure held at the femoral stick site for 10 to 15 minutes. A bandage will be applied
- The patient will be on bed rest for four to six hours following the exam and have someone drive them home.