Venogram

Test Overview

A venogram is an X-ray test that takes pictures of the blood flow through the veins in a certain area of the body.

During a venogram, a dye is put into your veins so they can be seen clearly on an X-ray picture. A venogram looks at the condition of your veins and the valves with your veins.

A venogram can look at the veins in your legs, pelvis, arm, or the veins leading to the heart, or the veins leaving your kidneys. A venogram may be done to find a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT). Blood clots in the deep veins can be serious because the clot or part of it can break off and move through the blood. It can block an artery in your lung (pulmonary embolism) which can be life-threatening.

See an illustration of normal blood flow and blood flow blocked by a blood clot (thrombus) .

	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated January 10, 2006
Medical Review:	Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.