Peripheral Angiography

Peripheral angiography captures images of peripheral arteries (arteries in the lower abdomen, kidneys, arms, legs and feet). Peripheral arteries, that supply blood to the head and neck or abdomen and legs, do not normally show up on X-rays. During a peripheral angiography, contrast (dye) is used while an X-ray captures images of the peripheral arteries. To inject the contrast (dye) into the bloodstream, a catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the upper thigh (groin) or arm. Once the catheter is in place the contrast (dye) is released and angiograms are taken. The peripheral angiograms can indicate the build-up of plaque on the inside walls of peripheral arteries and can help detect peripheral vascular disease (PVD). This test is performed in the cardiac catheterization lab. This takes about an hour.