Carotid Angiogram- About the Exam

Carotid angiogram is performed to diagnose and treat abnormalities in the carotid artery of the neck. A carotid angiogram can detect atherosclerotic, plaque disease in the carotid artery which can limit blood flow to the brain and cause a stroke. In some cases, a contrast material is injected to produce clearer images of the blood vessels.

What you can expect during a carotid angiogram:

The neck will be cleansed with an antiseptic to avoid infection at the site of the biopsy.
The area near the carotid artery will be sterilized to prevent infection.
A small incision will be made at the site and, using imaging, a catheter is inserted through the skin into a blood vessel and navigated to the area to be examined.
Contrast material is then injected into the catheter. Images will then be taken or the area.
At the end of the procedure, the catheter will be removed and pressure will be applied to stop any bleeding.

Learn how to prepare for your carotid angiogram.

Learn the benefits and risks of a carotid angiogram.