 |
| |
Medical Health Tests >>
Angiogram >>
Brain Angiogram |
|
| |
|
Brain Angiogram - Angiogram of the Brain, Procedure, Recovery
Angiogram of the Brain
A brain angiogram is also known as a cerebral angiography. It is a medical procedure used to non - invasively have a look at the internal blood flow and performance of vessels and arteries in the head and neck region. An angiogram of the brain is one of the foremost methods of detecting conditions such as aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations. Some of the other purposes that the procedure helps with include the detection of blockages or narrowing of the arteries in the neck that serve to carry the blood to the brain. In the event that blood flow to the brain is either slowed down or stopped, the consequences include a stroke or transient ischemic attack. The brain angiogram procedure is also used to check the pattern of blood flow into a tumor and also helps identify if the tumor has grown over a period of time.
Brain Angiogram Procedure
An angiogram of the brain is performed by a radiologist who will first place an intravenous injection into the patients arm to supply the body any required fluids or medication. A device that measures the pulse and oxygen levels in your blood will then be placed on the tip of your finger or ear. A number of small electrodes will be placed on parts of your body including your arms, chest and legs in order to help record any changes in heart rate and rhythm. The patient will be required to lie down on an x-ray table while restraints may be placed to make sure you remain absolutely still. Any movement will blur the captured images – rendering the entire process a waste of time. Other parts of your body will be covered with the help of a lead apron to prevent X-ray exposure. A catheter will then be placed into the groin area or just above the elbow after a local anesthetic has been applied. This catheter will be guided through the blood vessels until it reaches the region of the body that requires studying. The overall procedure will take approximately 1 to 3 hours. You would require some amount of rest just after the procedure has been completed.
Brain Angiogram Recovery
Patients may experience some amount of pain when the catheter is being inserted or the anesthetic is been given. While some pressure may be experienced on the removal of the catheter, pain should not be present. Some after effects of the procedure include lightheadedness, nausea or even the presence of a salty or metallic taste in the mouth for a few days after the procedure.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
