Angiogram

Angiograms: Diagnostic Tool and Potential Malpractice Target

An angiogram, also known as angiography, is a medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to visualize the inside of blood vessels and organs. This procedure generally diagnoses and treats various cardiovascular conditions, making it a tool in modern medicine. However, like any invasive medical procedure, angiograms carry risks and can potentially lead to medical malpractice claims.  

A Brief History of Angiograms

The development of angiography goes back to the early 20th century. In 1927, the German radiologist Werner Forssmann successfully performed a self-catheterization of his own heart, a groundbreaking feat that laid the foundation for modern cardiac catheterization techniques. Building on this pioneering work, researchers and clinicians continued to refine the technique, leading to the development of angiograms as we know them today.  

When is an Angiogram Necessary?

Angiograms are generally recommended for patients experiencing symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease (CAD), a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Common symptoms of CAD include:  

• Chest pain (angina)  
• Shortness of breath  
• Fatigue  
• Heart palpitations  
• Dizziness  
• Fainting

In addition to diagnosing CAD, angiograms can also be used to evaluate other cardiovascular conditions, such as:

• Aortic aneurysm  
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)  
• Venous disease  

Baltimore medcial malpractice lawyer Mark Kopec can assess whether you needed an angiogram and potential medical malpractice claims.

Who Recommends and Performs Angiograms?

Angiograms are generally recommended by cardiologists, who are physicians specializing in heart health. However, the procedure itself is typically performed by interventional cardiologists or radiologists, who have specialized training in image-guided procedures.  

What Can an Angiogram Show?

An angiogram can provide valuable information about the blood flow within the heart and blood vessels. It can reveal:

• Narrowed or blocked arteries  
• Aneurysms (bulges in the blood vessel wall)  
• Blood clots
• Other abnormalities in the blood vessels  

By visualizing these abnormalities, physicians can develop appropriate treatment plans, such as medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions like angioplasty or bypass surgery.

What an Angiogram Cannot Show

While angiograms are a powerful diagnostic tool, they have limitations. They cannot directly assess the function of the heart muscle or detect certain types of heart disease, such as cardiomyopathy or myocarditis. Additionally, angiograms cannot identify non-obstructive coronary artery disease, a condition in which the arteries are narrow but not completely blocked.  

Angiograms and Medical Malpractice

Angiograms are generally safe procedures when performed by experienced physicians. However, injuries can occur, such as:  

• Bleeding  
• Infection  
• Allergic reaction to contrast dye  
• Heart attack
• Stroke

In some cases, these injuries may be due to medical negligence, leading to potential medical malpractice claims. Some common allegations of malpractice in relation to angiograms include:  

• Failure to obtain informed consent
• Misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose a condition that could have been detected with an angiogram
• Performing an unnecessary angiogram
• Surgical error, including improperly performing the angiogram, leading to complications  
• Failure to recognize and treat complications promptly

If you believe you may have been harmed by medical negligence during an angiogram, it is important to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. We can review your case, assess the potential for legal action, and help you navigate the complex legal process.  

Conclusion on Angiograms & Medical Malpractice

Angiograms have revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. By providing detailed images of the blood vessels, they enable physicians to make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans. However, it is crucial to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with this procedure. If you suspect medical malpractice during an angiogram, seeking legal counsel can help you protect your rights and obtain the compensation you deserve.

Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.