Venogram

Risks

There is some risk of problems with a venogram.

• There is a small risk of developing an allergic reaction to the dye.
• There is a small risk of infection or damage to the veins being studied. In rare cases, a venogram can cause a deep vein thrombosis.
• There is a risk of kidney problems if you take metformin (Glucophage) to control your diabetes.
• There is always a slight chance of damage to cells or tissue from radiation, including the low levels of radiation used for this test. However, the chance of damage from the X-rays is usually very low compared with the benefits of the test.

After the test

In rare cases, a venogram can cause an infection or a blood clot in the area studied. Call your doctor immediately if you have:

• A fever.
• Increasing pain, redness, or swelling in the arm or leg studied.

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Author:	Douglas Dana Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: November 12, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
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