Angiogram of the Head and Neck

Carotid Angiogram, Cerebral Angiogram

What To Think About

• Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) and computed tomography angiogram (CTA) are being done instead of standard angiogram in many cases because these tests are less invasive and easier to do. For more information, see the medical tests Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA) and CT Scan of the Body. However, some surgeons may want results from a standard angiogram before doing surgery to repair a damaged or abnormal blood vessel.
• For people with kidney problems, diabetes, or dehydration, steps are taken to prevent kidney damage. Less dye may be used or more fluids may be given before, during, and after the test. If you have a history of kidney problems, other blood tests (creatinine, blood urea nitrogen) may be done before an angiogram to make sure that your kidneys are working well. For more information, see the medical tests Creatinine and Creatinine Clearance and Blood Urea Nitrogen.
• In rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair a hole in the blood vessel where the catheter was placed. There is also a substance (called Angio-Seal) that can be used to help plug the hole in the vessel and stop the bleeding. The substance used to plug the hole in the vessel is normally absorbed by the body over several months.
• Other angiogram tests can be done, including:
  • A four-vessel study. The catheter is placed in each of the four arteries carrying blood to the head and neck (two carotid arteries and two vertebral arteries).
  • An arch study. The catheter is pulled back from the head and neck area until the tip is at the large artery (aorta) where it leaves the heart. This study lets your doctor check the arteries where they branch off the aorta.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: January 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Christine Wendt, R.D., L.D.
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