Digital Subtraction Angiography

Abstract

Digital subtraction angiography (DSA), utilizing computerized x-ray imaging equipment for image acquisition and subtraction, will provide substantial improvements in blood vessel imaging. With the high contrast sensitivity of these systems, visualization of major blood vessels using intravenous injections of radiographic contrast media is possible on a routine basis. Current technology, using digitized video fluoroscopy and temporal subtraction, may in the future be upgraded using energy subtraction, or a combination of time and energy (hybrid subtraction). Applications of line-scanned radiography to DSA have been demonstrated but improvements in frame rate and resolution of the line-scanned technology is needed for future systems.