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Cerebral Angiography: A Vital Tool for Brain Condition Diagnosis

Discover how cerebral angiography can uncover hidden brain conditions. Learn about its risks and when it's used.

in this picture we see a man seated and reading a paper with the help of a lamp
in this picture we see a man seated and reading a paper with the help of a lamp

Cerebral Angiography: A Vital Tool for Brain Condition Diagnosis

Cerebral angiography, a detailed X-ray examination of blood vessels in the head and neck, is typically employed when other diagnostic tests yield inconclusive results. This invasive procedure, while carrying certain risks, can provide crucial insights into various brain conditions.

Cerebral angiography can diagnose a range of conditions, including aneurysm, arteriosclerosis, arteriovenous malformation, vasculitis, brain tumors, blood clots, and tears in the arterial lining. It helps identify blockages or abnormalities that could potentially lead to stroke or brain bleeding. The procedure is indicated for diagnosing and treating acute ischemic stroke, vascular abnormalities, cerebral vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage, moyamoya disease, central nervous system vasculitis, and intracranial atherosclerotic disease.

Symptoms that cerebral angiography can help diagnose include stroke, severe headaches, memory loss, slurred speech, dizziness, blurred or double vision, weakness or numbness, and loss of balance or coordination. During the procedure, patients are sedated, and a catheter is inserted into the carotid artery. A contrast medium is then injected into the blood to create clear pictures of blood vessels on X-ray.

Cerebral angiography, while invasive and carrying risks such as stroke, damage to blood vessels, and blood clots, is a vital diagnostic tool. Patients should alert their doctor to any allergies, medical conditions, or pregnancy before undergoing the procedure.

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