Angiography or arteriography is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the inside of blood vessels, in particular, the arteries. This is traditionally done by injecting a contrast agent into the blood vessel using X-rays/ fluoroscopy. Using imaging for guidance, the Interventional Radiologist threads a catheter and wire through the artery to the diseased portion of the artery. Angiography of any artery can be performed including the head and neck, upper extremities, lower extremities, renal arteries, mesenteric arteries and pelvic arteries.
An aortogram involves placement of a catheter in the aorta and injection of contrast material while taking x-rays. Diseases can be diagnosed by this method. Interventions and/or procedures such as acute stroke treatment & care, carotid & vertebral artery stenting and angioplasty, as well as brain aneurysm treatment can then be performed.