Figure 3-12. Aortogram that shows opacification of aorta and tributaries.
(e)
The patient is anesthetized by the intravenous administration of
sodium pantothal.
(f)
The area in and around the injection site is made aseptic and then
sterile draped.
(g) The skin just below the 12th rib and approximately 7 cm to the left
of the spinous processes is punctured with a relatively short thick needle. A special
type of needle (15 cm in length and fitted with a stylet) is then passed through the
puncture hole and directed toward a point just anterior to the body of the twelth thoracic
vertebra. Upon approach of the needle point to the aortic wall, the stylet is removed
and the needle is then cautiously advanced until characteristic physical manifestations
indicate entry of the needle in the lumen of the aorta.
MD0959
3-31