[Cerebral complications after percutaneous carotid angiography (pathomorphological findings)]

We report on three deceased with pathomorphological findings at the CNS after direct (percutaneous) carotid angiography (d.c.a.). These alterations appeared as complications among 89 decreased with d.c.a. in the time interval from July 1966 to the end of 1978. The diagnostic investigation in the three cases was performed in order to exclude a brain tumour or a vascular disease. In all cases contemporary existed extensive changes at the vessels of the neck due to the angiographic investigation. The autopsy showed signs of a vascular disease in the CNS. For the performance of the carotid angiography an exact indication is necessary. To prevent such serious complications in future, we only can recommend the application of diagnostical methods without any risk.