æðamyndgreiningar

Æðamyndgreiningar, also known as angiography, is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the inside of blood vessels. It is a diagnostic procedure that helps doctors identify blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities in arteries and veins. The process typically involves injecting a contrast dye into the bloodstream, which makes the blood vessels visible on X-ray images.

The procedure begins with local anesthesia to numb the area where a catheter will be inserted, usually in the groin or arm. A small incision is made, and a catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the area of interest. Once the catheter is in place, the contrast dye is injected. As the dye travels through the vessels, a series of X-ray images are taken. These images create a detailed map of the circulatory system, highlighting any issues.

Æðamyndgreiningar can be used to diagnose a wide range of conditions, including atherosclerosis, aneurysms, blood clots, and vascular malformations. It is also used to plan and guide treatments, such as angioplasty and stenting, which are procedures to open blocked or narrowed blood vessels. The information obtained from angiography is crucial for determining the best course of treatment and improving patient outcomes. While generally safe, potential risks include allergic reactions to the contrast dye, bleeding at the insertion site, or damage to the blood vessel.