Diagnostic Radiographer Experience

Hello, I am one of the professionals who is responsible for producing images during your procedure. My training was initially as a radiographer and I have subsequently spent specialist time training in angiography and interventional radiology. I work closely with the radiologists. It is my responsibility to ensure that you are in the correct position on the table and I will ask you a number of questions to ensure that it is safe to carry out the angiogram. When we enter the procedure room, I will ask you about clothing, to ensure that there are no metal objects that may interfere with the quality of the images from the angiogram and then help you into position on the table. The equipment can move quite quickly but will not touch you. I will be able to see you at all times and I will also be able to hear you and talk to you to explain what is happening and what is needed from you. The angiogram requires injections of contrast medium which often gives a warm sensation. Sometimes people also sense a metallic taste in their mouth. These sensations are all normal and not a reaction to the contrast medium; they will pass within 20 or 30 seconds.

One you have had your angiogram, I am responsible for processing the images into high-quality diagnostic images which are available for the radiologist and other hospital doctors for interpretation. We either print out your pictures on special film which you may have seen on the hospital wards or on television or we can now transfer them to a special computer for interpretation by the radiologist.