A Comprehensive Guide to Peripheral Angiography: Procedure, Benefits, and Risks

By: SPARSH Hospital

Posted on April 1, 2025

A peripheral angiogram is a diagnostic test used to examine blood flow in the arteries outside the heart, particularly in the legs, arms, and other peripheral areas. It helps identify blockages that may lead to serious conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD). This procedure involves injecting contrast dye into the arteries and capturing detailed X-ray images.

What is a Peripheral Angiogram?

A peripheral angiogram is a minimally invasive imaging test used to examine the arteries supplying blood to the arms, legs, kidneys, and other peripheral areas. It is primarily used to detect narrowing, blockages, or abnormalities in these arteries.

The procedure is similar to a coronary angiogram, but instead of the heart, it focuses on the blood vessels outside the heart. This test is crucial for diagnosing peripheral artery disease (PAD), which can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Peripheral Angiography Procedure: Step-by-Step

The peripheral angiography procedure is performed in a hospital’s catheterisation lab (cath lab) and typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Step 1: Preparation

Your doctor will review your medical history and any existing conditions.
You may be asked to fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
A small intravenous (IV) line is inserted into your arm for administering medications if needed.

Step 2: Local Anaesthesia and Catheter Insertion

The doctor numbs the insertion site, usually in the groin, arm, or wrist.
A thin tube called a catheter is inserted into the artery and guided toward the area being examined.

Step 3: Injection of Contrast Dye

A contrast dye is injected into the arteries through the catheter.
X-ray images (angiograms) are taken to highlight blood flow and detect blockages.

Step 4: Analysis and Removal of Catheter

The doctor analyses the images for any narrowed or blocked arteries.
The catheter is carefully removed, and pressure is applied to prevent bleeding.

Step 5: Recovery

You’ll be monitored for a few hours to check for any complications.
Most patients are discharged the same day with instructions for rest and hydration.

Peripheral Angiogram Indications: When is it Needed?

A peripheral angiogram is recommended for individuals showing symptoms of poor circulation, including:

Leg pain or cramping while walking (intermittent claudication)
Non-healing wounds or ulcers on the feet or legs
Coldness or numbness in the limbs
Weak or absent pulses in the legs or feet
Discolouration of the skin (bluish or pale appearance)

Doctors may also suggest this procedure if you have risk factors for peripheral artery disease (PAD), such as:

Diabetes
Smoking
High cholesterol
Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Benefits of a Peripheral Angiogram

Accurate Diagnosis: Helps detect narrowed or blocked arteries with high precision.
Early Detection: Identifies peripheral artery disease (PAD) before severe complications arise.
Guides Treatment: Determines if treatments like angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery are needed.
Minimally Invasive: Compared to surgical procedures, this test has a quick recovery time.

Peripheral Angiography Risks: What to Expect

While the procedure is generally safe, there are potential risks of Peripheral Angiography, including:

Bleeding or Bruising: At the catheter insertion site.
Allergic Reaction: Some patients may react to the contrast dye used in the test.
Blood Clots: Rarely, the catheter can dislodge plaque, leading to a clot formation.
Kidney Damage: The dye can sometimes affect kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.

If you have pre-existing conditions, discuss the risks with your doctor before proceeding.

When to See a Doctor

If you have persistent leg pain, numbness, slow-healing wounds, or any other signs of circulation problems, it’s important to seek medical advice.

You can consult a cardiologist in Bangalore at SPARSH. We are a reputed cardiology hospital in Bangalore and have the experts and technology to help diagnose and manage the condition effectively.

Conclusion

A peripheral angiogram is a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting blockages and circulation issues in the arteries. By identifying problems early, this test helps prevent serious complications like peripheral artery disease (PAD).

If you’re experiencing symptoms of poor circulation, consulting a cardiologist can provide expert guidance and advanced treatment options.

Would you like to learn more about your heart health? Book a consultation today and take the first step towards better circulation and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of a peripheral angiogram?

A peripheral angiogram is a crucial test that provides a clear, real-time view of the arteries in your legs, arms, or other peripheral areas. If you’re experiencing symptoms like leg pain, numbness, or slow-healing wounds, this test helps detect blockages, narrowing, or abnormalities in your blood vessels. It also plays a key role in guiding treatments like angioplasty or stenting, which can restore proper blood flow and prevent serious complications like ulcers or even amputation in severe cases.

What are the risks of a peripheral angiogram?

While the procedure is generally safe, there are minor risks, such as bleeding or bruising at the catheter insertion site. Some people may have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during the test. In rare cases, there’s a small risk of blood vessel damage, infection, or blood clot formation, but doctors take precautions to minimise these risks.

Can an angiogram damage the kidneys?

The contrast dye used in an angiogram can put stress on the kidneys, especially if you have diabetes, pre-existing kidney disease, or dehydration. In some cases, this can lead to temporary kidney strain or, very rarely, more serious kidney issues. However, doctors assess kidney function before the procedure and recommend drinking plenty of water before and after to help flush out the dye and protect kidney health.

Is there any danger in angiography?

A peripheral angiogram is a standard, low-risk procedure, but like any medical test, there are some rare complications. In very few cases, artery damage, blood clots, or infections can occur. However, doctors carefully evaluate each patient’s health to ensure the procedure is necessary and safe. If any concerns arise, they will discuss alternative options or additional precautions to take.