For patients with vascular disease, arterial blockages, or circulation concerns, catheter-based angiography provides highly detailed imaging to accurately diagnose and plan lifesaving treatments. This minimally invasive procedure allows vascular specialists to visualize arteries, veins, and blood flow with precision, helping to detect narrowed, blocked, or damaged vessels before serious complications arise.
At Vascular Surgery Associates in Los Angeles & Santa Monica, we use advanced catheter-based angiography to diagnose complex vascular conditions, ensuring patients receive the most effective and targeted treatments for PAD, aneurysms, blood clots, and arterial disease.
What Is Catheter-Based Angiography?
Catheter-based angiography is a diagnostic imaging test that uses contrast dye and X-ray technology to create real-time images of blood vessels. Unlike non-invasive vascular tests, this method provides highly detailed visualization of circulation and arterial structures, making it a valuable tool for diagnosing and planning surgical or minimally invasive vascular treatments.
The procedure involves:
- Inserting a thin catheter into an artery, usually through the groin or wrist
- Injecting contrast dye to highlight blood vessels under fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging)
- Identifying blockages, narrowing, aneurysms, or abnormal blood flow patterns
- Guiding vascular interventions, such as angioplasty, stenting, or clot removal procedures
When Is Catheter-Based Angiography Recommended?
This highly specialized imaging technique is used to diagnose and assess a variety of vascular conditions, including:
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Evaluating arterial narrowing in the legs
Aneurysms
Detecting weakened or bulging arteries
Carotid Artery Disease
Assessing stroke risk from narrowed carotid arteries
Renal Artery Stenosis
Diagnosing blockages affecting kidney circulation
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) & Blood Clots
Identifying clots that may require removal or stenting
Mesenteric Ischemia
Detecting reduced blood flow to the intestines
Thoracic & Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (TAA & AAA)
Evaluating the aorta for weakening or rupture risk
Benefits of Catheter-Based Angiography
Compared to traditional imaging methods, catheter-based angiography provides unmatched clarity and accuracy, allowing vascular specialists to:
- Detect vascular conditions with high precision
- Evaluate blood flow and arterial blockages in real-time
- Plan minimally invasive treatments like angioplasty, stenting, or embolization
- Avoid unnecessary surgery with targeted, image-guided interventions
- Reduce the need for exploratory procedures by providing a clear diagnosis
How the Procedure Works
- Preparation Patients receive a local anesthetic at the insertion site. A small catheter is placed into the artery through the groin or wrist.
- Contrast Injection A safe, medical-grade contrast dye is injected, making blood vessels visible under X-ray fluoroscopy.
- Imaging & Diagnosis The vascular specialist carefully examines the arteries to identify blockages, abnormalities, or weakened vessels.
- Guided Treatment (If Needed) If a treatable condition is found, such as a narrowed artery or blood clot, angioplasty, stenting, or clot removal can often be performed immediately during the same procedure.
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Recovery is quick, and most patients go home the same day.
- Some bruising or minor soreness at the insertion site may occur.
- Patients should avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours.
- Follow-up imaging or treatment may be recommended based on the results.
Dedicated to Excellence in Vascular Care Since 1963
Vascular Surgery Associates (VSA) has established itself as a cornerstone of vascular health in Southern California, combining decades of experience with cutting-edge treatment methods. Founded by visionary surgeons in 1963, our practice has grown from pioneering beginnings into one of the busiest and most respected vascular surgery groups in the Western United States.
Advanced Vascular Imaging & Treatment in Los Angeles & Santa Monica
At Vascular Surgery Associates, we offer state-of-the-art catheter-based angiography to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning for vascular conditions. Whether you’re experiencing leg pain, poor circulation, or stroke risk factors, early detection is essential for preventing serious complications.
Schedule a consultation today with Los Angeles & Santa Monica’s top vascular specialists to determine if catheter-based angiography is the right diagnostic test for you.