Health Topics for Tests and Exams

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Cellular Immunology Diagnostic Lab

Cerebral Angiography

A cerebral angiogram is an x-ray that shows the blood vessels in the head. To see these blood vessels, a dye is injected that provides x-ray-visible contrast. The dye is delivered through a catheter in a blood vessel in the arm, leg, or the neck.

The purpose of a cerebral angiogram is to detect problems with the blood vessels. These include:

• aneurysm, which is a sac in the vessel wall

• malformations

• blood clot

• unusual narrowing or blockage (Vascular Surgery)

• follow-up after surgery and

• changes due to a tumor, internal bleeding, or swelling

The person must not eat for 8 to 10 hours before the test. Most people are awake during the procedure. Some people (especially children) receive a general anesthetic. Others may need a mild sedative to relax. The test can last from 30 minutes to a few hours. The dye may cause warm feelings, flushed face, temporary headache, salty taste, or nausea and vomiting.

The patient lies on an x-ray table. The most common site to inject the dye is the leg. A local anesthetic numbs this site. The healthcare provider then inserts a needle into a blood vessel. The catheter is then advanced toward the head. The dye is injected and moves through the vessels that supply the brain. At the same time, x-rays are taken. Images are viewed on a TV monitor and transferred to a series of still films.

After the test, the person is typically kept at bed rest for 12 to 24 hours. Providers closely watch for signs of a blood clot, stroke, or neurological problems. These include numbness, tingling, weakness in limbs, vision problems, confusion, and dizziness.

Signs of delayed reaction to the contrast dye include itching, rash, sweating, or difficulty breathing. The puncture site is treated with ice and firm pressure. If the site was in the leg, it should be kept straight for at least 12 hours. The person should drink plenty of fluids to rid the body of the dye.

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