As an expert in medical imaging, I can tell you that during an angiogram, patients are generally awake but often given a mild sedative to help them relax. The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel, which is usually done under local anesthesia. This means that the area where the catheter is inserted is numbed, and while you may feel some pressure, the initial needle prick to insert the catheter is typically the most discomfort you'll experience. The entire process can take from 45 minutes to an hour, and you'll be monitored closely by the medical team throughout. read more >>

An angiogram typically takes from 45 minutes to one hour. You will lie on a table, awake but mildly sedated. A local anesthetic will be applied to numb an area on your upper leg or on your arm or wrist. This initial needle prick will probably be the only pain you will feel throughout the procedure.read more >>