The Improved and Non-Dangerous Method for Angiograms

In another first, the American Medical Center/American Heart Institute (AMC/AHI) has expanded the treatment options for patients who need angiograms by using Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in order to minimize the risk of kidney damage.

An angiogram is an imaging test that uses x-rays to view blood vessels by injecting a liquid, sometimes called “dye”, through a thin, flexible tube. Many patients who require angiograms suffer from kidney damage or are allergic to the dye given intravenously. The currently available contrasts can damage kidneys and carry a high risk of permanent kidney injury if there is pre-existing kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, atherosclerosis, advanced age etc. Allergies can also increase the risk of a reaction to the contrast dye.

AMC/AHI introduced the use of inert CO2 as a contrast agent instead of regular contrast.  CO2 can be given intravenously or intra-arterially, perform the necessary angiograms and even treat patients without the risk of kidney damage.  CO2 can be given in unlimited amounts and (unlike regular contrast) it is entirely harmless, when used according to established guidelines.

The most recent case involved a patient with occluded arteries to the legs, unable to walk and suffering from kidney disease.  The staff of AMC/AHI was able to open the arteries, restore flow to the legs of the patient saving the patient form amputation, all without a single drop of dye.