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Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA)

Gold standard fluoroscopic technique for vascular imaging.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA)?

Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) is a real-time fluoroscopic imaging technique that produces high-resolution images of blood vessels by digitally subtracting a pre-contrast mask image from contrast-enhanced images. This eliminates background structures and yields exquisite vascular detail.

DSA remains the reference standard for cerebral, coronary and peripheral vascular imaging, and is the principal modality for guiding endovascular interventions including thrombectomy, embolization, stenting and chemoembolization. CT angiography and MR angiography have largely replaced diagnostic DSA, but interventional DSA usage continues to grow.

Symptoms

Symptoms requiring vascular evaluation
Acute ischemic stroke for thrombectomy candidacy
Subarachnoid hemorrhage for aneurysm detection
Peripheral arterial disease for revascularization
Hemoptysis for bronchial artery embolization
Suspected vascular malformation
Tumor embolization preoperatively

Risk Factors

Iodinated contrast allergy
Renal insufficiency (eGFR under 30)
Severe peripheral arterial disease at access site
Coagulopathy or anticoagulation
Pregnancy (relative contraindication)
Hyperthyroidism
Severe heart failure

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Indication for endovascular intervention
  • Diagnostic uncertainty after CTA/MRA
  • Acute large vessel occlusion stroke (less than 24 hours)
  • Active bleeding requiring embolization
  • Vascular malformation requiring treatment
  • Pre-surgical tumor mapping

Treatment Methods

01
Pre-procedure renal function and coagulation assessment
02
Hydration to reduce contrast nephropathy
03
Femoral or radial artery access under local anesthesia
04
Catheter and microcatheter manipulation under fluoroscopy
05
Iodinated contrast injection with digital subtraction acquisition
06
Diagnostic angiography or therapeutic intervention
07
Hemostasis with manual compression or vascular closure device
08
Postprocedural monitoring for access-site complications
09
Renal function follow-up at 48-72 hours

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.