Carotid angiography is a type of imaging test used to diagnose and treat carotid artery disease. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses X-rays and a contrast dye to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in the neck.
What is carotid angiography?
Carotid angiography is a type of imaging test used to diagnose and treat carotid artery disease. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses X-rays and a contrast dye to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in the neck.
When is carotid angiography performed?
Carotid angiography is typically performed when a patient has symptoms of carotid artery disease, such as stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). It is also used to evaluate the severity of carotid artery disease and to plan treatment.
What tests might I have before carotid angiography?
Before carotid angiography, your healthcare provider may order other tests, such as a carotid ultrasound or a CT angiogram. These tests can help your healthcare provider determine if carotid angiography is necessary.
Who performs carotid angiography?
Carotid angiography is typically performed by a radiologist or a vascular surgeon.
How does carotid angiography work?
During carotid angiography, a thin tube called a catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin. The catheter is then guided through the artery to the carotid arteries in the neck. A contrast dye is injected through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken to create detailed images of the carotid arteries.
How do I prepare for carotid angiography?
Before carotid angiography, your healthcare provider will give you instructions on how to prepare. This may include fasting for several hours before the procedure and avoiding certain medications.
What should I expect when I arrive for carotid angiography?
When you arrive for carotid angiography, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie on an X-ray table. You will be connected to monitors to track your heart rate and blood pressure.
What should I expect during carotid angiography?
During carotid angiography, you may feel some pressure when the catheter is inserted into your artery. You may also feel a warm sensation when the contrast dye is injected. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.
Is carotid angiography painful?
Carotid angiography is not usually painful, but you may experience some discomfort.
What should I expect after carotid angiography?
After carotid angiography, you may experience some bruising or soreness at the site where the catheter was inserted. You may also feel tired or have a headache. These symptoms should resolve within a few days.
What do carotid angiography results show?
Carotid angiography results show the size and shape of the carotid arteries, as well as any blockages or narrowing of the arteries.
When will I know the results of carotid angiography?
Your healthcare provider will discuss the results of carotid angiography with you after the procedure.
When should I call my healthcare provider after carotid angiography?
You should call your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms after carotid angiography, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
How do healthcare providers treat carotid artery disease?
Treatment for carotid artery disease depends on the severity of the disease. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.
References:
1. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Carotid Angiography. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/carotid-angiography
2. Mayo Clinic. (2020). Carotid Angiography. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/carotid-angiography/about/pac-20384590
3. American Heart Association. (2020). Carotid Artery Disease. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/carotid-artery-disease
Keywords: carotid angiography, imaging test, carotid artery disease, X-rays, contrast dye, catheter, carotid arteries, blockages, narrowing, lifestyle changes, medications, surgery