Understanding Retinal Angiography: A Comprehensive Guide

1. What is Retinal Angiography?

Retinal angiography is a medical procedure that involves injecting fluorescent dye into the blood vessels at the back of the eye to illuminate and capture them. Primarily used for monitoring eye diseases, this test aids in diagnosis, determining appropriate treatments, and assessing the condition of blood vessels behind the eye.

2. Indications for the Test:

When should you consider a Retinal Angiogram?

This test is conducted to assess normal blood circulation in the retinal and choroid layers of the eye. It is utilized to diagnose eye conditions and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatments. Your doctor may recommend a retinal angiogram to:

• Confirm abnormal blood vessels within or beneath the retina.
• Identify and locate retinal vascular leaks, particularly in cases with symptoms indicative of retinal damage or edema (e.g., blurred or distorted vision), often associated with diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration.
• Detect inflammation or tumors in the eyes.
• Accurately pinpoint areas on the retina that require prioritized treatment through laser surgery.
• Identify blockages in blood vessels supplying or draining blood from the retina (retinal arteries and veins).

3. Preparation:

What should you know before having a Retinal Angiogram?

Indocyanine green, an alternative to fluorescein, may be used to better detect eye diseases, especially for identifying leaks under the retina. Not recommended for pregnant patients, particularly in the first trimester, as the dye can enter breast milk, making breastfeeding unsafe for 24 to 48 hours. Patients with cataracts may experience unclear test results. Understanding these warnings is crucial; consult your doctor for specific instructions and information.

4. Implementation Process:

What do you need to do before having a Retinal Angiogram?

Arrange for transportation after the test, as your pupils will remain dilated for 12 hours. Remove contact lenses before the procedure. Inform your doctor about any allergic reactions, history of glaucoma, medications, and pregnancy or breastfeeding status. The procedure involves dilating your eyes, fixing your head in place, and injecting fluorescein into a vein for imaging blood vessels.

5. Post-Test Care:

What should you do after a Retinal Angiogram?

Expect blurred vision for 12 hours and refrain from driving until pupil dilation effects subside. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from light damage during this period. Consult your doctor for any concerns or questions about the procedure.

6. Results Interpretation:

What do your Retinal Angiogram results mean?

The test, lasting 30 minutes, provides immediate results. Abnormalities may indicate:

• Obstruction of retinal arteries or veins.
• Cancer.
• Diabetic retinopathy or other retinal diseases.
• Hypertension.
• Inflammation or edema.
• Macular degeneration.
• Microaneurysm (small blood vessel bulging).
• Papilledema.

Consult your doctor for a detailed discussion on your test results.