Digital subtraction angiography (DSA)
An imaging method that allows real-time visualization of the patient’s arteries.
It involves taking a series of x-rays at timed intervals while injecting radiopaque IV contrast. The pre-contrast images are then digitally subtracted from the images taken with IV contrast to visualize the artery of interest.
Indication: coronary angiography (cardiac catheterization), visualization and treatment (stents) of cerebral aneurysms and peripheral arterial disease (highest diagnostic accuracy)
