Venography
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
Venography is a test that shows blood flow through a vein. Contrast liquid is used to help the vein show up in x-rays. Venography can be used to find current blood flow problems or the effects of a past problem. Blood flow may be blocked or slowed from inflammation, a tumor, or a blood clot. Venography may be used if other tests cannot find the cause of your health problem. The results will help your healthcare providers make or change treatment plans.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have numbness or tingling in an arm or leg.
- You have any of the following signs of an allergic reaction to the contrast liquid:
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
- Dizziness or fainting
- Swelling of your mouth or face
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden decrease in urination
- A rash, itching, or swollen skin
Seek care immediately if:
- The bruise where the catheter went in suddenly gets bigger.
- You have pain or bleeding at the catheter site.
- You have signs of an infection, such as redness and swelling at the catheter site.
Call your doctor if:
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Care for the catheter site:
- Keep the bandage on the catheter site for 1 day. Then you can remove the bandage. If the area starts bleeding, apply firm pressure for 10 minutes. Use gauze or a clean towel to apply pressure.
- Check the catheter site for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.
- Ask when you can bathe after your procedure. Your healthcare provider may tell you to take a shower instead of a bath if the bandage is still in place. Cover the bandage and keep it dry during the shower. Pat your skin dry. Do not rub over the catheter site to dry your skin.
- Ice the area to reduce swelling, tenderness, and pain. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you apply it to your skin. Apply it for 20 minutes every hour, or as directed.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Drink liquids as directed:
Liquids will help flush the contrast liquid out of your body. Ask how much liquid to drink after your procedure, and which liquids to drink. Your healthcare provider may tell you to drink extra liquids for 1 or 2 days after your procedure.
Activity:
For the first 12 hours, go slowly and be careful. Rest as needed. Do not climb stairs, drive, bend, or lift heavy objects. These activities may put too much pressure on the catheter site and increase your risk for bleeding. Ask your healthcare provider when you can return to your normal activities.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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