Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) of Cardiovascular Arteries, Heart Chambers, Valves, and Venous Structures
This contrast-enhanced digital subtraction angiography (DSA) procedure uses targeted injection of iodinated contrast media paired with real-time X-ray imaging to visualize the complete cardiovascular arterial network, including coronary arteries, aortic branches, and peripheral arteries, alongside associated heart chambers, valves, venous structures, and lymphatic vessels. Digital subtraction of pre-injection baseline images eliminates signal from bone and soft tissue to produce high-resolution, dynamic images of blood flow, enabling providers to diagnose arterial blockages, arteriovenous malformations, valve dysfunction, and abnormal venous or lymphatic flow without the need for invasive surgical diagnostic procedures.
This contrast-enhanced digital subtraction angiography (DSA) exam captures dynamic high-resolution images of cardiovascular arteries, heart chambers, valves, veins, and lymphatic vessels to diagnose blockages, structural malformations, and abnormal blood flow patterns.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- angiography
- Body part
- whole-body
- Contrast
- iodinated
- Contrast route
- iv
- Ionizing radiation
- true
- Radiation dose
- 7
- Duration (min)
- 10
- Preparation
- fasting-4h
- Pregnancy safe
- false
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- none
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- urgent
- Setting
- any
- Cost tier
- high
Understanding Angiography of arteries
Digital Subtraction Angiography provides detailed visualization of arteries. Contrast material highlights vascular structures and improves tissue differentiation. The procedure uses controlled radiation to create precise images with excellent anatomical detail.
Clinical Indications
This evaluation helps detect arterial blockages, identify aneurysms, assess blood flow patterns, and guide vascular interventions.
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 10 minutes. You may experience a brief warm sensation as contrast is administered. The examination is painless and non-invasive.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by board-certified radiologist.
- Report transmitted to referring physician.
What Is This Procedure?
This angiography evaluates whole-body, specifically arteries. Uses contrast dye to enhance visualization. Uses controlled radiation.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of arteries and veins. Part of the cardiovascular system.
Why Is It Done?
Detect arterial blockages, Evaluate blood flow, Identify aneurysms.
What to Expect
Procedure takes 10 minutes. May feel warm sensation if contrast used.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
emergencyDifficulty breathing, swelling, rapid heartbeat after contrast. Call 911 immediately.
Call 911 immediately
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy