Neuro Angiogram

This outpatient procedure takes place in the hospital’s Medical Imaging department using specialized X-ray equipment (Angiography Suite). Most children receive anesthesia. During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin or wrist under ultrasound guidance, then guided to the target vessel. X-ray contrast (dye) is injected while taking X-ray images.

Neuro angiograms detect abnormalities in the blood vessels of the brain, head, neck, or spine. They help diagnose conditions like bleeding, vasculitis (inflammation), or blockages (e.g., stroke).

Before the procedure, patients will have a telemedicine or in-person visit to review medical history, undergo a physical exam, and determine if specialist recommendations (e.g., Cardiology, Endocrine, Pulmonary) are needed before anesthesia. This visit also helps patients and families understand what to expect on the day of the procedure.

The Day Before the Procedure

A Medical Imaging prescreening nurse will call to review:

• Diet restrictions
• Arrival times
• Medical history

The Day of the Procedure

Pre-Procedure Preparation

• Staff will confirm medical history and check vital signs (heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure).
• The family will meet with the anesthesia team and Neuro IR provider to discuss the plan and provide consent.
• If needed, a peripheral IV (PIV) catheter will be placed by the preoperative nurse using numbing medication and Child Life Therapy for comfort.

Procedure Duration

• Cerebral and head/neck angiograms: 1–2 hours (including anesthesia time)
• Spinal angiograms: 2–3 hours

Post-Procedure Care

Patients will stay in the post-procedure unit for 2–4 hours before going home with care instructions.

The overall risk of a neuro angiogram in children is very low (less than 0.5%). Possible risks include:

• Infection or bruising at the incision site
• Bleeding at the incision site
• Contrast reaction
• Small stroke

Neuro angiograms are diagnostic tests. Results may be:

• Normal (negative)
• Abnormal, showing conditions such as:
  • Vasculitis
  • Aneurysms
  • Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
  • Vessel obstruction

Findings help guide appropriate treatment.

Post-Procedure Care

• The arterial puncture site will be monitored for bleeding or swelling.
• Vital signs will be checked frequently.
• Groin access: Requires a few hours of bed rest unless a closure device is used.
• Wrist access: A pressure dressing stays in place for one hour.

Discharge & Follow-Up

• Patients are discharged once stable and monitoring is complete.
• A one-month telemedicine follow-up will be scheduled.
• Families receive contact information for any concerns after discharge.