An angiograph is a medical device used to visualize blood vessels within the body to diagnose and treat vascular diseases. This machine is used as part of a procedure called angiography.
Here are the main components and characteristics of an angiograph:
1. X-ray radiation source: The angiograph is equipped with an X-ray source that generates X-rays. This radiation passes through the patient's body and forms an image of the blood vessels on the detector.
2. Detector: The detector captures the X-rays that have passed through the patient's body and converts them into electrical signals. These signals are then processed by a computer to create detailed images of the vessels.
3. Patient table: The patient is placed on a special table that can be moved around inside the angiograph. This allows images of the vessels to be obtained in various angles and projections.
4. Contrast agent: During the procedure, a contrast agent, usually through a catheter, is injected into the blood vessels. This substance makes the vessels more visible on x-rays, allowing doctors to more accurately assess the condition of the vessels and identify possible problems.
5. Computer system: The angiograph is equipped with a computer system that processes the data and creates high-quality images of blood vessels. Doctors use these images for diagnosis and treatment planning.
6. Control Console: Medical personnel operate the angiograph using a special control console, adjusting radiation settings, table position, and other parameters of the procedure.
7. Monitors: To display images and monitor the process of the procedure, the angiograph has monitors on which doctors can follow the process and analyze the data obtained.
Angiography is widely used in cardiology, neuroradiology and other fields of medicine to diagnose and treat vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, aneurysms and vascular tumors.