Radiation exposure during angiography of the arteries supplying the brain

Simulated angiographic examinations of the cerebral arteries for various diagnostic purposes were carried out. Radiation exposure was compared between DSA and a conventional cut film technique in two planes. For most radio-sensitive structures in the head and neck, and particularly for the orbits, there was marked dose reduction for DSA, although additional projections were possible because of the reduced amounts of contrast. The cut film technique produced lower doses for the cervical marrow, cerebellum and parotid gland. All measured values were well below the critical dose so that, even with repeated examinations, no radiation damage is to be expected. (orig.)