Why is the doctor performing this test?

The aorta is the largest artery in the body. It arises from the left ventricle of the heart, goes up (ascends) a little ways, bends over (arches), then goes down (descends) through the chest and through the abdomen to where it ends by dividing into two arteries that go to the legs. It carries freshly oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Aortic angiography helps the doctor to evaluate the size, shape, and structure of the aorta. Aortic angiography is particularly useful in evaluating aortic dissection and aortic aneurysm.

What is the test?

Aortic angiography is an x-ray study of the aorta. With this test, a catheter is inserted into an artery in your arm, neck, or groin. The catheter is then threaded into your aorta. After dye is injected through the catheter, x-rays are taken of the dye as it travels within the aorta. The x-rays show how blood flows through the aorta. By looking at these x-ray images, your doctor can determine if there are any abnormalities with the size, shape or structure of your aorta.

Where is the test performed?

Aortic angiography is performed in the Heart Hospital Cardiovascular Lab or radiology department. It is often done along with other peripheral or cardiac studies.

How long does this test take?

Aortic angiography usually takes about an hour.

9/9/2008