Pelvic Radiograph with Guided Contrast Pelvic Arteriography and Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) via Catheter Placement

What Is This Procedure For?

A pelvic radiograph provides a detailed view of your pelvic bones and surrounding structures. The guided arteriography part uses a catheter inserted into a blood vessel to inject contrast dye, making blood vessels visible on X-ray images. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) then removes background images to highlight specific areas of interest, such as blockages or abnormal growths in the pelvic arteries. This helps doctors assess conditions like vascular disease, tumors, or other abnormalities that may not be visible on standard X-rays alone.

How Is This Procedure Performed?

You’ll lie on an examination table while a radiologist or interventional specialist guides a thin catheter through a blood vessel, often in your arm or groin. Contrast dye is injected through the catheter to visualize blood vessels in the pelvis. X-ray images are taken at different angles to create detailed views. The procedure may take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity.

Preparation and Recovery

Before the procedure, you may need to fast for a few hours, depending on your anesthesia plan. Inform your doctor about any allergies, medications (especially blood thinners), or medical conditions. Afterward, you’ll need to rest for a short time, and you may experience mild bruising or discomfort at the catheter insertion site. Follow your doctor’s instructions for monitoring and recovery.

Risks and Considerations

While generally safe, this procedure carries some risks, including allergic reactions to contrast dye, blood vessel damage, infection, or complications from anesthesia. Rarely, there may be issues with blood clots or nerve damage. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.