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A venogram is a diagnostic test that uses X-ray images to trace the flow of dye through the body’s veins to detect blood clots, tumors, and abnormal veins. It can also identify healthy blood vessels for transplant. The patient is injected with a contrast agent and X-rays are taken from different angles. The images are reviewed by a radiology specialist to identify abnormalities, including deep vein thrombosis. Treatment decisions are made immediately following the test.
A venogram is a diagnostic test that uses X-ray images to trace the flow of a special dye through the body’s veins. Radiologists can test to look for blood clots, tumors, and abnormally wide or narrow veins. Also, a venogram may be done to identify healthy blood vessels that can be transplanted into the heart or neck for a bypass procedure. The test is usually quick, painless, and very effective at discovering physical abnormalities that can’t be easily studied with other diagnostic tools.
When a patient is scheduled for a venogram, they are usually asked to avoid eating food or drinking anything other than water on the day of the test. A thorough history is taken to ensure that the procedure is safe and that the patient is not allergic to the dye. The patient is fitted with a hospital gown and taken to a radiology lab for testing. He or she lies down on a table so a specialist can sterilize the injection site, which may be in the foot, groin, arm, or torso. A local anesthetic may be given to temporarily numb the site.
Once the patient has been prepared, the radiologist injects a contrast agent containing an iodine or barium solution into the vein. The dye travels through blood vessels near the injection site, leaving a trail that is easily seen on X-ray images. A series of X-rays from different angles are then taken. After the procedure, the radiologist may inject a saline solution into a vein to dilute the dye and a blood thinner to prevent clotting. The patient is then transported to a hospital room and instructed to drink plenty of water to help flush the dye out of his system.
The venogram images are carefully reviewed by a qualified radiology specialist. He or she compares X-rays from different angles and identifies the size, location, and nature of the abnormalities. If the dye’s path is suddenly interrupted, the specialist can be fairly sure that a blood clot exists. Tumors and structural defects can be discovered if the dye follows an unusual route. Also, broken, weak, or too large veins can be detected by the movements of the dye.
The most common reason for doing a venogram is to check for a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a large blood clot that develops rapidly in one of the major blood vessels in the leg, which can cut off blood flow to the heart and possibly lead to a heart attack or stroke. Ultrasound and conventional X-rays are often insufficient in identifying the location and severity of DVT, but a venogram is usually very effective. Treatment decisions are made immediately following a venography test to provide the best chance of recovery.
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