Veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, father of Bollywood actor Salman Khan, is expected to be discharged from Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital after nearly a month-long stay for age-related health concerns.
A key part of his treatment involved a specialised imaging procedure known as digital subtraction angiography (DSA)—a technique widely regarded by doctors as the gold standard for visualising blood vessels. Here’s a deeper look into what exactly DSA is and why it’s such a significant aspect of modern medicine, especially in relation to the human brain.
Digital Subtraction Angiography is a type of imaging that allows a doctor to get a clear and unobstructed view of the blood vessels in the body. It’s different from other types of imaging because it does not show background images such as the bones and tissues in the body.
In Digital Subtraction Angiography, a dye is injected into the body, and then pictures are taken with an X-ray. A computer then subtracts everything else from the image and gives a clear and high-definition picture of the blood vessels.
When it comes to the brain, precision is critical. Even small disruptions in blood flow can lead to serious complications.
This type of imaging is said to be the most accurate in viewing blood vessels in the brain and spinal cord. It gives a clearer picture than some non-invasive procedures such as CT scans and MRI scans and is especially helpful in diagnosing issues such as:
This type of imaging is especially helpful in emergency procedures such as in cases of an ischemic stroke, which requires immediate attention and procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy to save a patient’s life.
One of the biggest advantages that DSA has over other procedures is that it does not just diagnose a problem; it also allows for treatment in real time.
Here’s how it works:
This allows for a diagnosis and treatment in one session, which is why it is such a powerful tool.
Like any other medical procedure, there are some risks involved in DSA, such as minor blood loss at the insertion site and reactions to the dye used in the procedure. However, experts claim that such complications are extremely rare when in the hands of specialists.
The procedure is done under local anesthesia and requires the patient to be awake during it.
Even though other non-invasive techniques, such as CT angiography and MR angiography, exist, these techniques may not provide similar levels of detail. Doctors still choose to use DSA if they need precise information to make critical decisions.
Essentially, DSA is like a high-definition roadmap of the body’s vessels, helping doctors diagnose, treat, and heal patients more effectively.
Q: What is DSA used for?
DSA is primarily used to get a clear view of the blood vessels in the body, especially to diagnose and treat conditions related to the brain and spinal cord, such as blocked blood vessels, aneurysms, brain bleeds, and stroke-related issues.
Q: How is DSA performed?
A dye is injected into the body, and X-ray images are taken. A computer then subtracts the background images, leaving a clear picture of the blood vessels.
Q: Is DSA safe?
While there are minor risks such as blood loss at the insertion site and possible reactions to the dye, these complications are rare when the procedure is performed by specialists.
Q: Why is DSA preferred over other imaging techniques?
DSA provides a more detailed and accurate view of blood vessels compared to some non-invasive techniques like CT and MRI scans, making it crucial for precise diagnosis and treatment
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis
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