[Value of intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography]

Among 3000 digital subtraction angiographies which have been performed in our institute, 850 patients have been examined intraarterially. The advantage of i.a. DSA is due to the excellent demonstration of vessels in survey angiograms by small amounts of contrast medium (10-20 ml in the aorta), without risk of selective catheterisation into the neck vessels, the saving of expensive film series, the short duration of vessel examinations and the small complication rate. I.a. DSA can be carried out on outpatients also, using the 4/5 F-catheter, which saves hospital charges. Impressive examples show the advantages of i.a. DSA.