CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

In an abdominal angiogram, where should the catheter be positioned during the flush?

1. At the level of T8

2. At the level of T12

3. At the level of L1

4. At the level of L5

The correct answer is: At the level of T12

For an abdominal angiogram, accurate catheter positioning is crucial to ensure optimal visualization and imaging of the abdominal vasculature. Positioning the catheter at the level of T12 is appropriate because it aligns with the aortic bifurcation into the common iliac arteries, which is typically located at this vertebral level. Positioning the catheter at T12 allows the contrast media to adequately fill the vascular structures that are of interest in an abdominal angiogram, including the renal arteries and mesenteric vessels, while minimizing the risk of omitting crucial anatomical areas that might occur with higher or lower placements. Additionally, placement at this level helps in effectively targeting the major arteries branching off the abdominal aorta, ensuring that the entire region can be visualized during the flushing process.