DefinitionExtremity arteriography is a test that uses x-rays and a special dye (contrast material) to see the arteries in the hands, arms, feet, or legs.Alternative NamesAngiography/arteriography of the extremityHow the test is performedExtremity arteriography is done in a hospital or medical center. You will lie on an x-ray table. You may ask for a sedative if you are anxious about the test.The health care provider will shave and clean an area, usually in the groin area. A numbing medicine (anesthetic) is applied, and a needle inserted into an artery. A thin plastic tube called a catheter is passed through the needle, into the artery, and up into the area of the body being studied. The doctor can see live images of the area on a TV-like monitor, and uses them as a guide.The dye flows thro