Risks and Benefits of Cerebral Angiogram: What You Need to Know

Cerebral angiogram basilar tip brain aneurysm

October 9th, 2025
By Reza J. Karimi, MD, FAANS, FACS

Risks and Benefits of Cerebral Angiogram: What You Need to Know

A cerebral angiogram helps your doctor properly diagnose and evaluate blood vessels in your brain. The diagnostic test can detect several conditions such as aneurysms, blood clots and atherosclerosis.

Is a cerebral angiogram done in the wrist or groin? How is a Cerebral Angiogram Performed

The procedure is performed by a specially trained professional in an operating room and involves a catheter being placed in either your wrist or groin area. A special contrast dye is then injected through the catheter to show the structure of your blood vessels and an X-ray is then taken. Before the procedure, patients are given a mild sedative to help them relax, but remain awake.

Benefits of a Cerebral Angiogram

A cerebral angiogram is able to provide highly detailed images of your body’s blood vessels. Your physician will use the results of a cerebral angiogram to confirm or diagnose potential abnormalities in your brain.

Risks of a Cerebral Angiogram. Is a Cerebral Angiogram Painful?

A cerebral angiogram is generally safe and painless. However, as with any procedure, there are risks to consider which may include damage to blood vessels, bruising or bleeding at the puncture site, and potential for infection. There is also a potential for an allergic reaction to the text contrast material, blood clots or stroke. The overall risk of significant complications from a cerebral angiogram is under 1%. Talk to your physician about possible risks and concerns.

Is a cerebral angiogram considered major surgery? Is a Cerebral Angiogram a type of Surgery?

A cerebral angiogram is considered a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure. After the procedure, you’ll remain in the recovery room for a few hours prior to returning home. Your physician will provide you with specific and personalize instructions.

Results of a Cerebral Angiogram

After the procedure, an imaging specialist will review and interpret the test results. If a brain aneurysm is present, the angiogram will show its size, shape and location. This information will help your physician determine the best course of possible treatment. A normal angiogram result will show that there are no abnormalities or blockages in the blood vessels that were examined.

Cerebral Angiograms in New Jersey

Dr. Reza Karimi, MD of New Jersey Brain and Spine covers cerebral angiograms in more detail and is a perfect resource if your physician has recommended you have a cerebral angiogram. To get a second opinion please contact us today by calling 201-342-2550. Our experienced physicians and team members have cared for more than 40,000 patients with complex brain and neurological conditions for over 25 years.

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Risks and Benefits of Cerebral Angiogram: What You Need to Know