Carotid Angiography

A LOOK INTO BLOOD VESSELS THAT CARRY BLOOD TO YOUR BRAIN

Carotid angiography is the injection of contrast to evaluate the degree of stenosis or narrowing of the carotid arteries, which can lead to stroke, and to then assess the best method of treatment. 

This procedure may be done in our office-based endovascular lab or at the hospital. The location is at the discretion of the physician and patient based on each individual's needs.

This procedure is done while you are awake; however, you will be given medicine to help you relax during the procedure. Using local anesthesia or numbing medicine, a needle is placed in your groin and a small tube is advanced through your artery. Contrast is then injected through that tube and x-ray pictures are taken.

ON THE DAY OF YOUR PROCEDURE, PLEASE FOLLOW THESE STEPS:

  • Have nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before.

  • Bring all medications with you.

    • Individual medications you should take the morning of your procedure will be discussed when your procedure is scheduled.

  • You must have someone accompany you for this procedure, as you will not be allowed to drive for 24 hours.

  • This procedure requires a needle stick to the artery; therefore, you will be required to stay 2-3 hours after the procedure.