Angiograms are X-ray images of blood vessels that can detect serious problems such as aneurysms and atherosclerosis. After a catheter is passed through an artery to the area being studied, a contrast material is injected to highlight the vessels when the X-rays are taken. Angiography can show the extent and severity of atherosclerosis in the coronary and carotid arteries, as well as diseased vessels in the brain, kidneys, legs and other parts of the body.

Interventional Angiography

If an angiogram shows a dangerous build-up of plaque (atherosclerosis) inside an artery, an angioplasty procedure may be performed to clear away the blockage and restore normal blood flow. Angioplasty typically involves inserting a tiny balloon into the artery through a catheter. When the balloon reaches the site of disease, it is inflated, pushing the obstruction out of the way and opening the artery. Then a miniature scaffold called a stent can be implanted in the artery to keep it open.

CT and MR Angiography

CT and MRI are often used instead of traditional angiography – this minimizes patient discomfort. CT angiography (CTA) and MR angiography (MRA) scans take only a few minutes and give doctors more detailed information. Radiologists use CTA and MRA to look for abnormalities in arteries that supply blood to the brain, lungs, kidneys, intestines and legs. CTA also is used in some cases to evaluate coronary artery disease.

Stroke Damage Assessment

CTA and MRI are used to assess the severity of strokes and to help minimize their damage. A stroke is the death of part of the brain, usually caused by a clot that cuts off blood flow. Special CT and MRI scanners can show which areas of the brain are receiving a normal supply of blood, which are not, and which have already died. If a section of brain near the area of stroke is found to be alive but receiving too little blood, doctors can use drugs to try to save it.

Heart Attack Evaluation

CTA and MRI are used to assess the extent of damage caused by heart attacks. These imaging techniques can show which parts of the heart have died from lack of blood supply, and they can help physicians decide whether a patient needs by-pass surgery or an angioplasty procedure to open a blocked artery. CTA and MRI scans can also show whether the heart valves are working properly.