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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Tests and Exams > Cerebral Angiography: Preparation & Expectations
      Category : Health Centers > Brain and Nervous System

Cerebral Angiography

Alternate Names : Cerebral Angiogram, Neuroangiography, Neuroangiogram

Cerebral Angiography | Preparation & Expectations | Results and Values

What is involved in preparation for the test?

Special preparation is needed before the test. A brief physical exam is done to evaluate pulses in the groin and legs. If a person has a weak pulse in the groin, a different artery will be used to insert the catheter. The doctor will also review the person's medical and surgical history. He or she may ask whether the person:

  • takes medicines that thin the blood, such as aspirin or warfarin
  • has a bleeding tendency or any blood disorders
  • the person has any problem with or disease that affects the kidneys
  • has had a prior allergic reaction to contrast agent or dye
  • Before the test, the person's blood is tested to check for any bleeding tendency and to check kidney function. A woman of childbearing age will be screened for pregnancy, usually with a urine or blood pregnancy test. This is done because the radiation from the test could harm an unborn child.

    The person cannot eat or drink anything for 6 to 8 hours before the test. Dentures, eyeglasses, and jewelry, such as a necklace or earrings, should be removed before the exam.

    The risks, benefits, and complications of the test are usually explained to the person on the day of the procedure. Some possible complications from the test include:

  • allergic reactions to the contrast agent used
  • bleeding in the groin
  • heart attack, which occurs in less than 1% of cases
  • irregular heartbeats, called arrhythmias
  • stroke, which occurs in less than 1% of cases
  • If procedures are done during the exam, such as angioplasty, additional risks are involved. These will be discussed by the doctor before the test.

    This test may be done on an outpatient basis. This means that the person can go home after the test. Sometimes, a person must stay in the hospital for a day or more after the test. Often, this test is used for people in the hospital with serious or life-threatening central nervous system disorders.


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    Cerebral Angiography: Overview & Description

     

    Cerebral Angiography: Results and Values

    Author: Lanita Dawson, MD
    Reviewer: Adam Brochert, MD
    Date Reviewed: 02/11/02



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