A Cerebral Angiogram, also known as Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), is a highly specialized diagnostic procedure used to visualize the blood vessels of the brain, head, and neck with remarkable clarity. This gold-standard imaging test is essential in evaluating abnormalities such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), vessel blockages, stenosis, or vascular tumors.
At CARE CHL Hospital, Indore, under the expert guidance of Dr. Alok K. Udiya, we offer advanced DSA using high-resolution biplane neurointerventional imaging equipment, ensuring maximum diagnostic accuracy and patient safety.
Key Benefits of the Treatment
Cerebral Angiogram (DSA) is not just another test—it is a cornerstone in neurovascular diagnosis and planning. Here’s why it matters:
- Unmatched Clarity: Reveals even the smallest blood vessels and microaneurysms missed by CT or MRI.
- Real-Time Analysis: Captures blood flow in real-time, helping in dynamic assessment of vessel function.
- Precise Localization: Pinpoints exact site of abnormalities such as AVMs, stenosis, or aneurysms.
- Supports Planning: Guides the interventional team for procedures like coiling, stenting, or embolization.
- Early Diagnosis: Detects life-threatening conditions like stroke risk factors before symptoms worsen.
- Therapeutic Options: In many cases, diagnostic DSA can immediately be followed by therapeutic procedures (e.g., stenting or coiling) in the same sitting.
How This Treatment Works
A Cerebral Angiogram (DSA) is performed in a sterile, catheter-based angiography suite. Here’s how the procedure typically works:
1. Patient Preparation
- Fasting for 6–8 hours before the procedure
- Evaluation of kidney function, bleeding profile, and any history of allergies (especially to contrast dye)
2. Catheter Insertion
- A small catheter is inserted through the femoral artery (in the groin) or radial artery (in the wrist).
- Using real-time X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated through the body’s arterial system up to the neck and brain vessels.
3. Contrast Injection & Imaging
- A contrast dye is injected, which makes blood vessels visible under fluoroscopy.
- High-speed imaging captures the contrast movement through cerebral vessels.
- “Digital subtraction” removes surrounding structures from images, highlighting only the blood vessels.
4. Observation & Analysis
- Neurologists and interventional neuroradiologists analyze the blood vessel structure for:
- Narrowings (stenosis)
- Aneurysms (ballooning of vessels)
- AVMs (abnormal connections)
- Tumor vascularity
- Signs of stroke or hemorrhage
5. Post-Procedure Monitoring
- Patients are monitored for a few hours (or overnight) to watch for any side effects or bleeding at the catheter site.
- Most patients can return home the same or next day.
Why Choose Dr. Alok K. Udiya for DSA at CARE CHL Hospital?
Choosing the right specialist makes all the difference in minimally invasive neurovascular diagnostics. Here’s why patients and referring physicians trust Dr. Alok K. Udiya:
- Renowned Interventional Neuroradiologist with extensive experience in over 1000+ DSA procedures
- Specialized in both diagnostic and therapeutic neurointerventions, ensuring a seamless treatment plan
- Access to cutting-edge Biplane DSA Suite for safer, faster, and clearer imaging
- Personalized approach to evaluating stroke, aneurysm, AVM, and tumor-related vascular issues
- Strong collaboration with neurology, neurosurgery, and critical care teams for integrated patient management
- Trusted by patients across Madhya Pradesh and referred by leading hospitals for second opinions
FAQs – Cerebral Angiogram (DSA)
Q1. Is DSA painful?
The procedure is generally not painful. Local anesthesia is used at the insertion site. You may feel a warm sensation during contrast injection.
Q2. How long does the procedure take?
The entire procedure usually takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity.
Q3. Is it safe? What are the risks?
Yes, it is a safe procedure in expert hands. Minor risks include bleeding or bruising at the catheter site, allergic reaction to contrast dye, or temporary neurological symptoms (rare). Serious complications are very rare.
Q4. Can DSA detect a stroke?
Absolutely. DSA is one of the most precise tools to assess stroke risk, blockages, and even active clots that may require urgent thrombectomy.
Q5. What should I do after the procedure?
After DSA, you will need 4–6 hours of rest and hydration. Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous activity for a day or two. Follow all discharge instructions carefully.
Q6. Will I need admission?
In many cases, DSA is a day-care procedure. However, some complex cases may require overnight observation.
Q7. How is DSA better than MRI/MRA or CT Angiography?
DSA offers higher resolution, real-time imaging, and allows direct access for therapeutic procedures—making it the gold standard in cerebrovascular diagnostics.
📍 Book a Consultation
For more information, patient referral, or a second opinion, contact:
Dr. Alok K. Udiya
Interventional Neuroradiologist
CARE CHL Hospital, Indore
📞 +91-99993 78980