A cerebral angiogram is the most detailed way to look at the blood vessels of the brain and spine. It is usually done when a scan such as a CT or MR angiogram has found something that needs a closer look, or to plan treatment.
A cerebral angiogram, also called a catheter angiogram or DSA (digital subtraction angiography), uses a thin, flexible tube called a catheter. The catheter is placed into an artery in the wrist or groin and gently guided up to the arteries in the neck. Contrast dye is injected while X-ray pictures are taken, showing blood flow through the vessels in real time.
It is performed by a neurointerventional specialist in a special X-ray suite, usually in a hospital.
In many cases, problems found during an angiogram, such as an aneurysm, can be treated during the same procedure through the catheter.
You lie on your back and receive medicine through an IV to help you relax. The skin over the wrist or groin is numbed, and the catheter is placed into the artery. You will not feel the catheter moving inside the blood vessels. When dye is injected, you may feel warmth in your head or face or see brief flashes of light for a few seconds. You will be asked to hold very still and sometimes to hold your breath. The procedure usually takes 30 to 90 minutes.
Pressure is held on the artery, or a closure device or wrist band is used. If the groin was used, you will need to lie flat for a few hours. If the wrist was used, you can usually sit up sooner. For several days, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity, and keep the site clean and dry. Drink plenty of fluids to help clear the dye.
Call 911 for sudden weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, vision loss or a severe headache. Call the doctor for bleeding or growing swelling at the puncture site, or a hand or leg that becomes cold, pale or numb.
Cerebral angiograms are commonly done and are generally safe in experienced hands. Possible risks include bruising or bleeding at the puncture site, a reaction to the dye, kidney strain, and a small risk of stroke. Your care team will explain the risks for your situation.
A catheter angiogram gives the most detailed pictures of blood vessels and shows blood flow in real time. It is often needed to confirm a finding or plan treatment, and sometimes treatment is done during the same procedure.
It can be done through either. The wrist usually allows you to sit up and walk sooner. Your doctor will choose based on your anatomy and the reason for the test.
Usually you are given medicine to relax and stay comfortable but awake. Some patients are given general anesthesia.
If Dr. Grunch has ordered a cerebral angiogram for you and you have questions, call 470-293-9800 or contact us. You can also ask general questions any time through our “Ask Us Anything” chat. For questions about scheduling, cost or arrival time for the test itself, call the imaging center where it is booked.
Related: All imaging and diagnostic tests · CT and MR angiogram · Intracranial hemorrhage
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace individualized care from a licensed physician. Please talk to your provider about your symptoms and follow the instructions from your imaging center.
