Frequently Asked Questions

What is Digital Subtraction Angiography?

An Angiography is a radiological study to examine the blood vessels of the body after introducing a contrast dye. Subtraction simply eliminates the bone and cartilage structure from the view of the blood vessels hence known as Digital Subtraction Angiography. A fluoroscopic digital image is when combined with injection dye and real-time subtraction is Digital Subtracted Angiography image.

What are the three conditions for Digital Subtraction Angiography to work?

1. Scout film
2. Angiogram field contrast
3. No motion of the head

What are the indications for Digital Subtraction Angiography?

Digital Subtraction Angiography is used for diagnostic as well as therapeutic purposes as follows:

1. Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage
2. Arterial laceration or dissection
3. Aneurysm
4. Pseudoaneurysm
5. Thrombosis
6. Arterio-venous malformation
7. Arterio-venous fistula
8. Tumor vascularity
9. Embolism
10. Stenting
11. Thrombolysis
12. Thrombectomy

How is Digital Subtraction Angiography performed?

1. Sedation may be given during the procedure to reduce anxiety.
2. The heart rate, rhythm, breathing, and oxygen saturation are continuously monitored throughout the procedure.
3. After administration of local anesthesia, a small incision is made and a catheter is inserted into the blood vessel. Fluoroscopy is given to guide the needle in the proper direction inside the vessel.
4. When the needle is in the correct position, then the needle is removed and the dye is injected into the bloodstream.
5. Images are acquired during contrast injection.

When is Digital Subtraction Angiography contra-indicated?

There may be few contraindications and they are:

1. Poor renal reserve
2. Deranged coagulogram
3. Allergic to contrast media