What is cerebral angiogram?

A cerebral angiogram is a diagnostic medical procedure used to visualize the blood vessels in the brain. It helps doctors detect abnormalities such as aneurysms, blockages, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), or narrowing of the arteries that can lead to strokes or other neurological conditions.

How it Works:

Procedure:

• A catheter (thin, flexible tube) is inserted into an artery, typically in the groin or arm.
• The catheter is carefully guided through the blood vessels to the arteries in the brain.
• A contrast dye is injected through the catheter to make the blood vessels visible on X-ray or other imaging technology.

Imaging:

• X-rays or advanced imaging techniques (like CT or MRI angiography) are taken to visualize the blood flow in the brain’s arteries and veins.
• The dye allows doctors to see blockages, aneurysms, or abnormal vessel formations.

Why It’s Done:

• It’s often used to diagnose conditions such as aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), strokes, or brain tumors.
• It provides a detailed map of the brain’s blood vessels, helping to guide treatment decisions.