ARTERIAL EMBOLISM DIAGNOSIS |
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The following tests can be used to
confirm the presence of an arterial embolism:
Electrocardiogram, also known as an EKG or ECG. For this test,
patches that detect electrical impulses from the heart are attached
to the chest and extremities. The information is displayed on a
monitor screen or a paper tape in the form of waves. Reduced blood
and oxygen supply to the heart shows as a change in the shape of the
waves.
Noninvasive vascular tests. These involve measuring blood pressure
in various parts of the body and comparing the results from each
location. When there is a decrease in blood pressure beyond what is
normal between two points, a blockage is presumed to be present.
Angiography. In this procedure, a colored liquid material (a dye, or
contrast material) that can be seen with x rays is injected into the
blood stream through a small tube called a catheter. As the dye
fills the arteries, they are easily seen on x ray motion pictures.
If there is a blockage in the artery, it shows up as a sudden cut
off in the movement of contrast material. Angiography is an
expensive procedure and does carry some risk. The catheter may cause
a blood clot to form, blocking blood flow. There is also the risk of
poking the catheter through the artery or heart muscle. Some people
may be allergic to the dye. The risk of any of these injuries
occurring is small. |
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| ARTERIAL EMBOLISM RELATED ITEMS |
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