Brain and spinal angiography (diagnostic angiography for these areas) is a test that allows the examination of blood vessels in the brain, neck, and along the spinal cord. The test is usually performed in a state of partial nudity to monitor the patient's reactions. It is not painful and lasts about 30 minutes.
Under local anesthesia, a catheter is inserted through the groin and advanced while navigating to the neck arteries. The imaging device used for such tests is biplanar, allowing visualization of the catheter at different angles to improve navigation capabilities. After inserting the catheter, contrast material is injected, and X-ray images of the blood vessels are obtained.
The main risk in diagnostic brain angiography is the possibility of a neurological event, but this risk is estimated to be less than half a percent in experienced hands. After the procedure, the patient should lie flat on their back for 8 hours without bending the leg where the puncture was performed.