Your doctor has recommended you for a fistulagram. This procedure is a study of your dialysis fistulas. It can detect problems like clots or narrowing. Marc L. Friedman, M.D. Chief of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, heads our team of Interventional physicians, nurses and technologists who specialize in these procedures.
You will be contacted the evening before regarding your scheduled arrival time.
If you have any question please call Interventional Radiology (310) 423-4125.
It is important that you not eat or drink anything six hours prior to your exam. Small sips of water may be taken along with your medications.
Please notify us if you are taking glucophage, insulin or a blood thinner.
Please also inform us of any allergies that you may have, especially to contrast materials.
Please bring a list of your medications with you to your exam.
We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time.
Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.
The technologist and physician will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have prior to your exam.
You will be asked to change into a gown and an IV will be started to deliver pain and sedation medication.
The Interventional Radiologist will insert a needle into your fistula, contrast will be injected and several x-ray images will be taken.
A fistulagram usually takes 1-2 hours to complete.
You will be taken to the recovery room where the catheters will be removed. The technologist or physician will apply pressure to the site to prevent bleeding.
You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure.
To request copies of your pictures on a PC and MAC compatible CD, or a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000 and follow the prompts for your selection.
Taper Imaging Center parking is located in Lot 7 at the corner of San Vicente Blvd. & Gracie Allen Dr. (Alden Dr.). Enter off Sherbourne Drive.
Parking is partially validated and validation is available in the Taper lobby.
Or, park in the Medical Center North Tower off George Burns Road.
There is a large metal sculpture in the shape of the number 8 in front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center.
There is a curbside patient drop-off zone on Gracie Allen Dr.
