Cerebral angiography is an imaging method that allows a detailed examination of the brain vessels. Cerebral angiography, which is used to diagnose blockages, aneurysms, vasodilatation or other vascular diseases in the brain vessels, uses contrast media to obtain clear and colorful images of the vascular structures. Cerebral angiography is an important diagnostic tool to determine the cause of brain hemorrhage, stroke, headache or neurological disorders.
Brain angiography can be performed with MRI (Magnetic Resonance), Computed Tomography (CT) or DSA (Digital Subtraction Angiography). In MRI and CT methods, the procedure can be performed without medication or with contrast (dye) given through the arm. In the DSA method, angiography is performed with the help of a catheter. A thin tube is inserted into the main vein in the groin area and directed into the brain vessels. This procedure is used to detect abnormalities in the brain vessels and to guide the treatment plan. Although cerebral angiography is a low-risk procedure, complications during the procedure are rare.
However, brain angiography provides comprehensive information about vascular structures with high accuracy. This allows doctors to tailor the treatment process more effectively. In addition, cerebral angiography helps to guide the treatment process by providing important information before or after surgical interventions.
In Which Diseases Is Brain Angiography Performed?
Brain angiography is an imaging method performed to detect various abnormalities in the brain vessels. Doctors usually recommend this test when a problem with the brain vessels is suspected. Brain angiography plays an important role in the diagnosis of blood vessel blockages, aneurysms, vasodilation and other brain diseases. Below are some of the diseases for which brain angiography is commonly used:
Aneurysm (Brain Vessel Bubbles): Aneurysms occur in the vessels of the brain when the vessels weaken and dilate, which can lead to cerebral hemorrhage. Brain angiography is used to determine the size and location of aneurysms.
Brain Vascular Blockage and Ischemic Stroke: Brain vascular blockage or narrowing prevents the brain from receiving enough blood and can lead to serious health problems such as ischemic stroke. A brain angiogram helps to determine the location and extent of blockages so that effective treatment options can be created.
Brain Hemorrhage: In patients with suspected brain hemorrhage or hematoma, a brain angiogram can be performed to identify the source of bleeding.
Vasculitis: Inflammation of the brain vessels can affect the vasculature. A brain angiogram determines whether the vessels are inflamed and possible damage. Brain angiography plays an important role in confirming the diagnosis of vasculitis.
Arteriovenous Malformations (AVM): Abnormal connections between vessels in the brain can pose a risk of bleeding. Brain angiography is commonly used to detect such vascular structures.
Brain angiography is an effective method to confirm the diagnosis of these diseases, create a treatment plan or decide on surgical intervention.
Why is brain angiography performed?
Brain angiography is an important medical procedure to examine the vessels of the brain in detail. The reasons for a brain angiography are usually to detect abnormalities in the brain vessels and to identify brain-related health problems. Brain angiography is performed especially in the following cases:
Cerebrovascular Blockages and Stroke: When there is a blockage or narrowing of the brain vessels, a brain angiogram is used to determine the location and severity of the blockage. These blockages prevent the brain from receiving oxygen and can lead to serious health problems such as stroke. A brain angiogram is an important test to see how far the blockage has progressed.
Aneurysm (Brain Vessel Bubbles): Aneurysms, which form when blood vessels in the brain weaken, carry a risk of bleeding. A brain angiogram determines the location and size of these aneurysms and which vessels they affect. With a brain angiogram, these vascular bubbles can be detected and risky areas can be identified.
Brain Hemorrhages: Brain hemorrhages can occur as a result of trauma or vascular disease. Brain angiography guides the treatment process by examining the source of the bleeding and the condition of the vascular structure. Brain angiography helps to best assess the effects of bleeding.
Arteriovenous Malformations (AVM): Abnormal connections between brain vessels (AVMs) can pose a risk of bleeding. A brain angiogram is performed to detect AVMs and to see the abnormal connections between the vessels. Brain angiography provides the necessary information for AVM treatment.
Brain Vasculitis: Inflammation of the brain vessels can block blood flow. A brain angiogram shows whether the vessels are inflamed and the effects this has on the brain vessels. A brain angiogram helps to plan treatment for vasculitis.
Brain angiography is a highly effective method for diagnosing these diseases, determining the course of treatment and deciding whether surgical intervention is necessary. Thanks to brain angiography, doctors can clearly see the problems in the brain vessels and direct the treatment process.
What are the risks of brain angiography?
Brain angiography is generally a safe procedure, but like any other medical procedure, it carries some risks and complications. During this test, which is performed to examine the vessels of the brain in detail, various side effects or complications can occur. Here are the possible risks of a brain angiogram:
Bleeding: During a brain angiogram, bleeding can occur in the vessel or brain tissue where the catheter is inserted. This can occur due to injury to the vessels during the procedure or due to the use of contrast media. Although rare, bleeding can lead to serious complications.
Infection: Placing the catheter in the body can increase the risk of infection. Especially if sterility rules are not followed, infections can spread through the surface of the skin and even into the brain tissue. This risk can be managed with antibiotic treatment.
Allergic Reactions: Contrast agents used in brain angiography can cause allergic reactions in some patients. Reactions such as skin rashes, breathing difficulties or nausea may occur. Although allergic reactions are usually mild, in some cases they can be more serious.
Brain Damage: Although very rare, damaging blood vessels or inadvertently intervening in the wrong area during a brain angioplasty can lead to damage to brain tissue. This can lead to loss of neurological function.
Neurological Problems: If blood vessels are affected during the angiography procedure, it can lead to complications such as temporary or permanent neurological problems and strokes. This risk may increase especially in people with pre-existing problems such as vascular occlusion and aneurysms.
Before a brain angiogram is performed, doctors assess these risks and make decisions about the procedure based on the patient's general health, past medical history and existing health problems. Although the risks are generally low, it is important to carry out a risk assessment for each patient before the procedure.
How is Brain Angiography (Brain Angiography) Performed?
Brain angiography is an important imaging procedure that allows a detailed examination of the brain vessels. Cerebral angiography, which is used to diagnose blockages, aneurysms and other vascular diseases in the brain vessels, is usually performed under local anesthesia. The process of how brain angiography is performed can be explained as follows:
Preparation Phase: Before the brain angiography is performed, the patient undergoes some blood tests and is given detailed information about the procedure. Since brain angiography requires the patient to remain immobilized during the procedure, they are ensured to be in a comfortable position. The patient is also checked for allergies to contrast media. These preparations are of great importance before starting the brain angiography procedure.
Catheter Placement: One of the main steps in brain angiography is the insertion of a thin catheter into a vein in the groin area. The catheter is inserted through the femoral artery (groin vein) and guided into the brain vessels. This is a critical step to get clear information about the brain vessels. The correct placement of the catheter is extremely important for the safety of the brain angiogram.
Injection of Contrast Medium: After the catheter is inserted, contrast material is injected through the vein. The contrast agent used in brain angiography provides a clearer view of the vessels and blood flow. It interacts with X-rays and reveals the brain vessels in detail. The contrast medium provides a better visualization of the brain vessels and is necessary for the brain angiography to be performed correctly.
Imaging: After the contrast medium has been injected, the patient's head is held still and images of the brain vessels are taken using an X-ray machine. At this stage of the brain angiography, a series of images are recorded and viewed on a monitor. The structure of the brain vessels is carefully examined for blockages, aneurysms or other vascular abnormalities. This is the most important part of the brain angiogram because it provides precise information about the condition of the vessels.
After the Procedure: When the brain angiography procedure is complete, the catheter is removed and pressure is applied to the treated area. This is necessary to prevent the risk of bleeding. The patient may need to be observed for a few hours after the brain angiography. Mild side effects, such as headache or nausea, can often occur after a brain angioplasty. However, these usually pass quickly. The doctor will determine when the patient can return to normal activities after the brain angiography.
A brain angiogram usually takes about 1 hour and most patients will need to rest in hospital for a short time after the procedure. A brain angiogram is an important test that helps to accurately diagnose vascular diseases and effectively guide the treatment process. This procedure plays a critical role in monitoring the health of the brain vessels and planning the necessary treatment steps.
Who Undergoes Brain Angiography?
Cerebral angiography is performed especially for people with suspected problems in the brain vessels or neurological diseases. Brain angiography is an important imaging method for the detection of conditions such as vascular occlusion and aneurysms. This procedure is generally recommended for the following conditions:
Suspected Aneurysm: Since vascular bubbles in the brain (aneurysms) carry a risk of bleeding, these vascular abnormalities can be detected with cerebral angiography. Brain angiography performed to detect aneurysms provides information about the risk of bleeding by examining the structure of the vessels.
Strokes and Cerebral Ischemia: Blockage or narrowing of brain vessels can reduce blood flow to the brain, which can lead to serious health problems such as stroke. A brain angiogram is used to locate the blockage.
People with Brain Hemorrhage: People who have had a brain hemorrhage may have a brain angiogram to determine the source of the bleeding. The source of the bleeding and abnormalities between the vessels can be clearly revealed by brain angiography.
People Diagnosed with Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM): Abnormal connections between vessels in the brain can lead to cerebral hemorrhage. Brain angiography is performed in people with suspected AVM.
People with Brain Vasculitis: Inflammation of the brain vessels can block blood flow. In people with suspected brain vasculitis, brain angiography is performed to determine the vascular structure and inflammation status.
People with Headache and Neurological Symptoms: People with neurological symptoms such as prolonged headaches, loss of vision and balance problems may undergo cerebral angiography to examine whether there is a problem in the brain vessels.
Those with Genetic Predisposition: Individuals with a family history of cerebrovascular diseases, especially those with genetic predispositions such as aneurysms, may also benefit from cerebral angiography.
Brain angiography is recommended by the doctor according to each patient's condition and the decision is made by considering the general health status of the patient before the procedure.
How to Prepare for Brain Angiography?
Brain angiography is a procedure that requires careful preparation and certain steps are taken to ensure the safety of the patient and to guarantee the success of the procedure. Preparations before brain angiography:
Consultation with the doctor and Health Assessment: Before a brain angiogram is performed, the doctor will review the patient's medical history. In particular, conditions such as heart diseases, kidney problems, allergies, bleeding disorders are questioned. In addition, information about the patient's regular medications (such as blood thinners) is obtained. The doctor determines whether these medications should be stopped before the procedure.
Blood Tests: Before a brain angioplasty is performed, blood tests are usually done. These tests measure kidney function, blood clotting ability and other important parameters. These tests are important to predict how the contrast agents used during the angioplasty procedure will act on the body.
Allergy Testing and Contrast Media: The contrast media used in brain angiography can cause allergic reactions in some patients. Therefore, if the patient has a history of allergic reactions to the contrast material, this is taken into consideration by the doctor before the procedure. In addition, the patient must inform the doctor if he/she is allergic to the contrast medium.
Food and Drink Restrictions: Brain angiography is usually performed under local anesthesia, but it is important to keep the stomach empty before the procedure. Patients are usually advised not to eat for 6-8 hours before the procedure and to limit fluid intake. This is necessary to prevent complications related to anesthesia.
Preparation of Clothing and Equipment: The person undergoing cerebral angiography should be in a comfortable position during the procedure. The patient is asked not to wear tight, metal accessories or jewelry. It is also important for the patient to take identification and insurance information with them.
Post Procedure Arrangements: After a brain angioplasty, the patient may need to remain under observation in the hospital for several hours. Therefore, the patient's relatives are advised to be prepared to assist after the procedure.
Medication Use: Before the procedure, the doctor will assess the patient's medications. Blood thinners are usually stopped for a while. Also, some medications may need to be given before or after the procedure.
Preparation for cerebral angiography may vary depending on the patient's health condition and the doctor's recommendations. Therefore, it is important that all preparations before the procedure are done in accordance with the doctor's instructions.
What is the Recovery Process After Brain Angiography?
Although the recovery process after brain angiography is usually fast and uneventful, it may vary for each patient. Here are some important steps and expected conditions that patients should pay attention to after a brain angioplasty procedure:
Initial Observation: After the brain angioplasty is completed, the patient is usually kept under observation in the hospital for 4-6 hours. This time is necessary for early detection of allergic reactions to the contrast agents used during the procedure or other possible complications. During cerebral angiography, the risk of bleeding is minimized by applying pressure to the area where the catheter is inserted.
Procedure Site Care: The site where the catheter is inserted during brain angiography is usually one of the groin or arm veins. After brain angiography, there may be mild pain, bruising or swelling in this area. This is usually normal and resolves within a few days. However, it is important not to put any pressure on the treated area or rub it. Taking care of this area after a brain angioplasty will help the healing process go faster.
Rest and Physical Activity: Patients are advised to avoid heavy physical activity for a few days after brain angiography. It is especially important to rest and avoid strenuous activities in the first 24 hours. Patients can usually return to their normal activities within a few days after brain angiography. However, it is recommended to avoid intense physical activities for 1-2 weeks.
Medication Use: After brain angiography, the doctor may recommend painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications. Also, if blood thinners are required, they should be used as prescribed by the doctor. Medicines after a brain angiography should be taken regularly and the doctor should be contacted if any side effects occur.
Side effects and complications: There are usually no serious complications after brain angiography, but there may be mild side effects such as headache, nausea or weakness. These symptoms usually disappear within a few hours. However, if you notice excessive pain, bleeding or signs of infection (redness, increased temperature) in the area where the procedure was performed, you should consult a doctor immediately. Early recognition of such complications after brain angiography allows the treatment process to proceed in a healthier way.
Follow-up Appointment: After a brain angiography, the doctor may invite the patient for a follow-up appointment. At this appointment, the results of the angiography will be evaluated and a roadmap will be created according to the treatment plan requirements. It will also check whether the healing process is progressing properly. Follow-up after brain angiography is an important step in the patient's recovery process.
Return to Normal Life: Most patients can return to normal life a few days after the brain angioplasty procedure. However, some patients may have a slightly longer recovery period after the procedure. In any case, it is important to follow the doctor's recommendations and take care during the specified periods. After a brain angioplasty, you can return to your daily life in a healthy way, depending on the doctor's recommendations.
Recovery after brain angiography is usually uneventful and most patients recover completely within a few days. However, it is very important to follow the instructions for care after brain angiography to minimize the risk of any complications.
What should be considered after a brain angioplasty?
There are several important points to be considered in order to complete the recovery process after brain angiography in a healthy way and to minimize the risk of complications. Things to consider after the procedure:
Pay Attention to the Procedure Site: The area where the catheter is inserted during cerebral angiography (usually the groin or arm area) may be sensitive for a few days. There may be swelling, bruising or mild pain in the treated area, but this is usually normal. The following points should be considered after a brain angioplasty:
- Take care not to put pressure on the procedure area.
- Do not rub or move the area excessively.
- If you notice signs of bleeding (persistent bleeding or leakage), contact your doctor immediately.
Pay Attention to Physical Activity: After a brain angioplasty, avoid heavy physical activity for as long as your doctor recommends. Bed rest may be recommended for the first 24-48 hours. It is necessary to rest for a few days after brain angiography before returning to normal life activities. Heavy physical activity can increase the risk of bleeding and negatively affect the healing process.
Pay Attention to Fluid Intake: After brain angiography, it is important to drink plenty of water as recommended by your doctor. The contrast material is excreted through the kidneys and fluid intake can speed up this process. In addition, fluid intake supports kidney function. Staying hydrated after a brain angiogram will speed up the recovery process.
Follow medication instructions: Continue to take the medicines prescribed by your doctor regularly after a brain angioplasty. These medicines may be needed to manage pain or to administer blood thinners. Regular use of medicines after brain angiography helps prevent complications.
Watch out for pain and side effects: Side effects such as mild headache, weakness, nausea or dizziness may occur after brain angiography. These symptoms are usually temporary. However, the following conditions may require urgent intervention:
- Extreme headache or dizziness
- Increased pain or bleeding in the treated area
- Shortness of breath, chest pain or heart palpitations
- High fever or signs of infection
If you notice such symptoms after brain angiography, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Attending follow-up appointments: After a brain angioplasty, your doctor may invite you to follow-up appointments. These appointments are important for evaluating the results of the procedure and monitoring the recovery process. Keeping follow-up appointments after brain angiography and following the doctor's recommendations will speed up recovery.
Beware of Allergic Reactions: Although allergic reactions to contrast media are rare, you should contact your doctor immediately if you notice allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, shortness of breath or dizziness after the procedure. Caution should be exercised after brain angiography to avoid the risk of an allergic reaction to contrast media.
Avoid drinking and smoking: It is recommended to avoid alcohol and smoking after brain angiography. Smoking can negatively affect vascular health and delay the healing process. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding. It is important to avoid alcohol and smoking to speed up the healing process after brain angiography.
Protect the Injured Area: If there is swelling, bruising or tenderness at the procedure site, it is important to protect the area from tight clothing or rough handling. You should also follow your doctor's dressing or care instructions. Protecting the procedure site after brain angiography reduces the risk of complications.
Careful monitoring after a brain angioplasty and following the doctor's instructions will ensure a smooth recovery. It is important to contact your doctor immediately if you notice anything unusual.