Abstract
Aim: To study the angiographic pattern of intracranial diseases encountered in Enugu following conventional carotid angiography (CCA) over an 11 year period. Method/Materials: The case notes, indications, request forms, films and radiological reports of all patients who had CCA were compiled and analysed. Results: Fifty nine patients consisting of 38 males and 21 females giving a male to female ratio of 1.8:1 were examined. Their ages ranged from 1 to 72 years with a mean age 31, 38. Indications consisted of suspicion of space-occupying lesion 52%, head injury 13.5%, proptosis 8.4%, suspicion of aneurysms based on previous computer tomographic (CT) or clinical findings 8.4%, stroke 5%, intracranial abscess, A.V fistula and others each 3.4%. The angiographic findings were as follows: normal findings 53.6%, subdural haematoma 13.6%. Aneurysms of communicating arteries 6.8%, other mass lesions 18.6%, A.V. fistulas, and vascular stenosis each 3.4% and epidural haematoma 1.7%. Conclusions: Space-occupying lesions are still the major indication for carotid angiography in our environment. This is followed by head injury, proptosis and suspicion of aneurysms, vascular stenosis is rare. CCA was a reliable and sensitive method for detection of cerebrovascular disease but not of tumours. It is also an excellent route for interventional procedures. The results of CCA and 3D imaging modalities are complimentary. The acquisition of more CT, MRI and angiography facilities by our health authorities should be encouraged so as to ensure more precise diagnosis at all times.