What is angiography and how long does it take?
What is angiography?
Angiography uses contrast material and X-rays to see the inside of blood vessels. It is most often used to examine the coronary arteries of the heart and the vessels of the brain and limbs.
The test identifies narrowings, blockages and other changes in the vessels. This information helps the doctor build the right treatment plan.
How long does it take?
A straightforward angiography usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours. If an intervention such as stent placement is planned during the procedure, it may take longer.
Allow extra time for preparation and several hours of observation afterwards. The exact duration is set by your doctor.
What to expect
Usually a thin catheter is placed into an artery at the wrist or groin under local anaesthetic. Contrast is injected and X-ray images are taken.
You may feel a warm flush as the contrast passes — this is normal. Your doctor will then explain the findings.
This is general patient education, not individual medical advice. Do not stop or change medicines yourself. Fast or make other preparations only when instructed by your care team.
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