Angiogram: Do You Have to be Put to Sleep for the Procedure?

You’d most likely be recommended for an angiogram in Singapore if you have signs of coronary heart disease (CHD), like chest pain. Usually, it is recommended when other tests, such as an ECG, suggest CHD.

During this diagnostic procedure, a catheter is inserted into the artery through a small incision. After that, a special X-ray-sensitive dye called contrast material is injected into the catheter to help highlight any blockages in blood flow. Read more: https://cadenceheart.sg/ultimate-guide-to-heart-screening-what-you-need-to-know/.

Because of how this procedure is done, the thought of undergoing an angiogram can be nerve-wracking. This is especially true if you’re unsure about what to expect regarding anesthesia. Keep reading to see if you’re put to sleep during an angiogram.

Do you have to be put to sleep for an Angiogram?

An angiogram can reveal if and where your coronary arteries are narrowed and by how much. It helps your doctor determine if treatments like medicines, angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass surgery could improve your angina or lower your risk of heart attack and other heart problems.

If you’ve just been recommended an angiogram in Singapore, one of the key questions that may consistently bug you is; do you have to be put to sleep for an angiogram?

The answer is no, you don’t have to be put to sleep for an angiogram. General anesthesia is not usually required as the procedure is can be safely performed using local anesthesia and mild sedation. The purpose of local anesthesia is to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted.

It helps ensure that you’re not feeling pain during the catheter insertion and imaging process. You may be given a mild sedative to help you relax and feel more comfortable during the procedure. This sedation does not put you to sleep. Instead, it is made to calm and reduce anxiety.

General anesthesia where you’re put to sleep during an angiogram may only be considered for babies and in rare cases where you are not able to remain still or have severe anxiety. It is not the standard practice.

What Happens During Angiogram from Start to Finish?

First things first, before your angiogram in Singapore, you will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure to reduce the risk of complications and ensure clear imaging. For example, you may need to avoid eating or drinking for 6–8 hours before the procedure.

Your care team will let you know what time to stop eating and drinking. You may be able to have clear liquids, like water or tea, up to 2 hours before the procedure. You should tell your doctor about all medications and natural health products you take.

This is particularly important if you’re using blood thinners as they may increase your risks of complications like excessive bleeding during the procedure. Your heart doctor may ask you to stop taking some before the procedure.

On the same note, please bring a list of your medications and their dosages to the hospital. If you have diabetes, you may need insulin or another medication before the procedure.

Other than the medications you’re using, you should also let your doctor know if you are allergic to contrast (X-ray dye) or iodine. You should understand the procedure, its risks and benefits, and other options. You should also make sure your doctor and the hospital have a copy of your advance care plan. 

Once you’re ready and in the hospital room that looks like an operating theater, the procedure will begin with the administration of local anesthesia at the insertion site. This is usually administered in the groin or arm.

A catheter is then carefully inserted into the blood vessel and guided to the area of interest. Once in position, a contrast dye is injected, and X-ray images are taken to visualize the blood vessels.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the angiogram. The procedure is generally quick, often lasting between 30 minutes to an hour. The sedative will help you remain calm, and the local anesthesia ensures that you do not feel pain at the insertion site.

What are the Do’s and Don’ts after an Angiogram?

After your angiogram in Singapore, you really don’t need to worry about the do’s and don’ts as they will be explained to you before you can leave the facility. Anyway and real quick, here are some guidelines you can typically expect.

The Do’s after an Angiogram:

*      Rest Well: Aim to rest as much as possible and avoid standing for extended periods. This helps your body heal and prevents strain on the insertion site.

*      Drink Fluids: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This helps flush out the contrast agent used during the procedure and speeds up your recovery.

*      Be Careful with Movement: If the catheter was inserted in your wrist, avoid bending your wrist too far back for a few days. Move carefully when getting in and out of bed or a chair to avoid strain.

*      Monitor for Infection: Keep an eye on the catheter insertion site for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Contact your doctor if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Don’ts after an Angiogram:

*      Avoid Heavy Lifting: Refrain from lifting heavy objects for at least a week. If the catheter was placed in your groin, limit lifting to 10 lbs for three days. For an arm insertion, avoid lifting more than 5 lbs for three days.

*      Skip Strenuous Activities: Avoid engaging in strenuous activities for a few days to prevent complications. Examples of strenuous activities to avoid include playing sports.

*      Limit Stairs: If the catheter was inserted in your groin, try to minimize stair use for a couple of days. If you must use stairs, take them slowly, stepping with the leg not affected.

*      Post-Sedation Precautions: If you were sedated, avoid making important decisions or operating machinery for 24 hours. This ensures your safety and prevents errors due to the lingering effects of the sedative.

Please, contact your heart doctor if, after an angiogram, you experience severe pain, persistent bleeding, or significant swelling at the insertion site. These symptoms could indicate a complication that needs medical attention.

Closing Thoughts

An angiogram does not require general anesthesia. With local anesthesia and mild sedation, the procedure is generally well-tolerated and minimally invasive. If you have any concerns or questions, please discuss them with your provider to manage any anxiety and prepare you for a successful angiogram.