Published with the inputs from Dr Balakumar K, Cardiologist, Baby Memorial Hospitals - Thodupuzha
Cerebral angiography (also called cerebral arteriography) is a diagnostic imaging test that uses X-rays and a contrast dye to create detailed pictures of the blood vessels in the brain. It helps doctors detect abnormalities such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), narrowing of arteries, or blockages that may cause stroke.
Cerebral angiography is performed to examine the blood vessels in the brain and neck. It helps diagnose aneurysms, AVMs, blood clots, narrowing (stenosis), or tumors with abnormal blood supply. It is often used when other imaging tests, such as CT or MRI, do not provide enough detail.
A catheter (thin tube) is inserted into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or wrist, and guided to the arteries supplying the brain. A contrast dye is injected, and X-ray images are taken in rapid sequence. The test usually takes 30–60 minutes under local anesthesia and sedation.
No. Patients are awake but given local anesthesia and mild sedation for comfort. You may feel slight pressure when the catheter is inserted and a warm sensation when the dye is injected, but the procedure is generally not painful.
The procedure is generally safe, but risks may include bleeding or bruising at the catheter site, allergic reaction to contrast dye, blood vessel injury, or in rare cases, stroke. Experienced specialists minimize these risks with advanced techniques.
After the test, patients are observed for a few hours to ensure there is no bleeding from the catheter site. Most people go home the same day. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 24–48 hours. Some mild soreness or bruising at the insertion site is normal.
CT and MR angiography are non-invasive tests that provide good images of blood vessels. However, conventional cerebral angiography is considered the gold standard because it provides the most detailed and accurate images, which are sometimes needed before surgery or treatment.
Cerebral angiography is highly accurate and often considered the definitive test for diagnosing brain blood vessel disorders. It allows doctors not only to see detailed images but also, in some cases, to perform treatments during the same procedure (interventional neuroradiology).
If you have been advised to undergo cerebral angiography for suspected aneurysm, stroke, or other vascular conditions, our Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology Team at Baby Memorial Hospital provides safe, advanced diagnostic and treatment options.