Intravenous digital subtraction angiography

Intravenous digital subtraction angiography (IV-DSA) is a form of angiography which was first developed in the late 1970s.

Additional recommended knowledge

How to ensure accurate weighing results every day?

Guide to balance cleaning: 8 simple steps

Weighing the right way

IV-DSA uses a computer technique which compares an x-ray image of a region of the body before and after radiopaque iodine based dye has been injected intravenously into the body. Tissues and blood vessels on the first image are digitally subtracted from the second image, leaving a clear picture of the artery which can then be studied independently and in isolation from the rest of the body.

Some studies have indicated that IV-DSA is not suitable for patients with diabetes or renal insufficiency because the dye load is significantly higher than is used in arteriography. However, IV-DSA has been used successfully to study the vessels of the brain and heart and has helped detect carotid artery obstruction and to map patterns of cerebral blood flow. It also helps detect and diagnose lesions in the carotid arteries which is a potential cause of strokes.

IV-DSA has also been useful in assessing patients prior to surgery and after coronary artery bypass surgery and some transplant operations.

See also

• Digital subtraction angiography

Sources

• Tortora, G.J., Anagnostakos, N.P., Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, Harper and Rowe, New York, 1990. ISBN 0-06-046694-4
• Rapid diagnosis of thoracic aortic transection using intravenous digital subtraction angiography.
• Signs of a stroke
• A comparison of angiography, intravenous digital subtraction angiography and duplex ultrasound in the diagnosis of carotid artery atherosclerosis.
• Comparison of ultrasound and IV-DSA for carotid evaluation