IADSA (Intra-Arterial Digital Subtraction Angiography)
In an IADSA the contrast fluid is administered via an artery. Sometimes you may have to stay in hospital overnight for observation.
Before the test
Before this test you will usually be admitted to hospital on the day before or on the morning of the test. The preparation you will need depends on which blood vessels are being viewed.
What happens during the test
We bring you into the angiography suite on a bed, and you lie down on the examination table. The doctor administers a local anaesthetic to your groin and then inserts a needle into the artery in your groin. The needle is replaced by a port through which a long, thin catheter is inserted to the place where the test is to be carried out. The contrast fluid is injected through the catheter, which causes a localised warm sensation.
As soon as all the X-ray images have been taken, the catheter and port are removed and pressure is applied to the needle insertion site for about 15 minutes.
After the test
Afterwards a firm pressure dressing will be applied to your groin and you will need absolute bed rest for 24 hours.