Angiografiaan

Angiografiaan is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the inside of blood vessels and organs. The method typically requires the administration of a radiopaque contrast agent and imaging with systems such as X-ray fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The resulting images show the lumen of vessels and the pattern of blood flow, aiding diagnosis and planning treatment for vascular disorders.

There are invasive and noninvasive forms of angiography. Invasive catheter-based angiography involves threading a catheter through an artery or vein to the area of interest, followed by contrast injection and real-time imaging. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) enhances vascular detail by removing background structures. Noninvasive alternatives include CT angiography (CTA) and MR angiography (MRA), which visualize vessels without catheterization.

Indications for angiography include evaluation of aneurysms, arterial stenosis, occlusions, arteriovenous malformations, vascular injuries, and planning or guidance of endovascular therapies such as angioplasty, stent placement, or embolization. In cardiac care, coronary angiography assesses coronary artery disease. In acute stroke, angiography helps identify large-vessel occlusions and informs treatment decisions.

Risks and limitations accompany angiography. Possible adverse effects include allergic reactions to contrast media, nephrotoxicity, and radiation exposure. Vascular injury, bleeding at the access site, infection, or rare procedure-related complications can occur. Contraindications may involve severe contrast allergy, significant renal impairment, or conditions making catheterization unsafe. Post-procedure care typically emphasizes monitoring, hydration, and avoidance of strenuous activity for a short period.

Historically, angiography evolved from early cerebral angiography to modern catheter-based techniques and increasingly relies on noninvasive imaging. Ongoing advances include improved image resolution, 3D roadmapping, and integrated imaging for planning interventions.