$Unique_ID{BRK01263}
$Pretitle{Special Procedures and Laboratory Tests, Circulatory System}
$Title{A Test Called "DSA" for Poor Circulation?}
$Subject{arteries angiography}
$Volume{P-4, G-4}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


A Test Called "DSA" for Poor Circulation?


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QUESTION:  Can you explain the use of a test called "DSA" for a problem that
seems to involve poor circulation.  We can't find this in our "Home Medical
Advisor" and need this information badly.  Please help?

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ANSWER:  Check the publication date in your "Advisor".  It is probably a bit
older than you realized.  DSA stands for Digital Subtraction Angiography, one
of the newest medical techniques on the scene.  It is the result of combining
x-ray and computer technology to study the heart and arteries without the
risks associated with conventional angiography.
     In DSA, x-ray images are digitally recorded into a computer, instead of
photographic film.  Rather than capturing a few isolated frozen images, the
computer is capable of recording these images continuously over time as if it
were making a videotape.  As in conventional angiography, a contrast medium is
injected into the body to make the structures more visible to the x-ray
camera.  However, DSA produces superior images with smaller amounts of the
contrast medium, and allows the contrast material to be injected into a vein
rather than an artery, reducing the risk to the patient.
     Once the images are stored in the computer, they can be retrieved at any
time for additional study.  Certain anatomical features that block a desired
view can be removed by "subtracting" them electronically from the image.  DSA
is constantly being improved (it cannot match conventional angiography in all
situations), but it is already one of the most exciting examples of the impact
of computers on medicine.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
