[Super-selective cerebral angiography. III. Diagnostic use and therapeutic possibilities of the telescopic catheterization technic in the circulation area of the external carotid artery in man]

Abstract

The diagnostic value and technical versatility of the previously described telescopic catheter system was demonstrated in 15 patients by super-selective angiography of the external carotid artery. It was possible in all patients to catheterise the individual branches with the F-catheter; the polyethylene-S-catheter could then be passed 3 to 5 cm, beyond the tip of the F-catheter. In almost half the patients, spasm of the injected artery was observed, particularly of the superficial temporal and external occipital arteries; this was reversed by intravenous papaverine and did not interfere with detailed diagnosis. It was usually possible to obtain filling of peripheral vessels, thereby demonstrating the territory of the middle meningeal artery, the scalp, sub-mandibular gland and the pinna. There were no complications as a result of the catheterisation. The usefulness and advantages of the telescopic catheter system for therapeutic neuro-radiological procedures, with embolisation of external branches in man, are discussed.