Carotid Angiography

What Is Carotid Angiography?

The carotid artery is located along the neck, and it supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain.  During carotid angiography, the doctor examines the artery for any blockages, defects, or signs of narrowing.  In some cases, the doctor performs a carotid ultrasound prior to carotid angiography.  This can sometimes eliminate the need for the more invasive examination as it provides a picture of the artery and its contents through the use of sound waves.   

Prior to carotid angiography, the patient must not eat anything for 8-12 hours.  Doctors usually advise patients to drink extra water and a sport drink on the morning of the surgery.   

The patient receives local anesthesia, and the doctor inserts a catheter into an artery, which he then guides into the carotid artery.  The doctor applies a dye to the artery through the catheter and takes an X-ray of the area.  This imaging technology helps reveal whether the artery is blocked or narrowed.