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My Child Has:
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Venography
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A venogram is a diagnostic procedure which precisely demonstrates the veins in a specific part of the body. It is performed by a radiologist who injects radiographic contrast medium into a vein. X-ray images taken during the injection show the inside of the vein.
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The radiological, technical, and nursing staff at Children's Hospital Boston is trained and experienced in all aspects of performing this examination and caring for the patient. The x-ray equipment is state-of-the-art and capable of supporting sophisticated vascular procedures. The interventional radiological staff is also trained and experienced in the use of advanced angiographic techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of certain disorders of blood vessels in children.
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Since venography is an invasive technique, it is recommended only in specific situations: when precise information regarding veins is required, and when this precision cannot be adequately provided by a noninvasive imaging technique such as ultrasound. Examples of specific conditions which are investigated by venography include thrombosis (blood clots) of the veins in the legs or other parts of the body, and malformations of the veins. Venography is also sometimes performed to outline the venous anatomy prior to surgical procedures (such as placement of central venous catheters or hemodialysis fistulas). Venography may also be combined with a therapeutic procedure which is performed through the same catheter (like angioplasty or thrombolysis -- infusion of drugs to dissolve blood clots).
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Venography, when performed by properly trained and experienced physicians, is a safe procedure with no significant long term side effects. However, as with any other invasive procedure, complications can occur and these will be explained in detail before you give your consent for the procedure. The procedure involves placement of a needle or catheter into a vein. The discomfort of needle placement is minimized by the use of local anesthetic. The remainder of the examination is not painful, although the patient must lie very still during the procedure.
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You will be given instructions regarding time and place of arrival and dietary preparation. A radiologist will explain the procedure to you in detail and obtain your signed consent (permission) before the procedure.
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Initially, an intravenous line (called an IV) will be started in a vein of the area requiring evaluation (in a leg venogram, for instance, the IV is placed in a vein on the foot). Contrast medium is injected through the IV and a series of x-ray pictures are taken. During the time when the x-rays are being taken, the patient is asked to hold his/her breath and lie very still. Once the examination is completed, the IV is removed.
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The injection of contrast medium through the IV helps show the veins on the x-ray images. The radiologist is then able to determine the location and nature of any abnormalities of the veins such as blockages, areas of enlargement, or abnormal anatomy.
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Normally, you will learn the results from your referring physician. The results will be available immediately after the procedure, although, in complex situations, it may require a few hours to completely process and interpret the films.
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Further information can be obtained by calling Children's Interventional Radiology Office at 617-355-6579. The appropriate person will return your call.
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