Fluid dynamics in cerebral angiography.

Flow field characteristics are described so that the physician may have a better understanding of the mechanical effects of rapid intravascular injection of a highly ionized hypertonic solution. Theoretical and experimental results which illustrate the fluid dynamics involved are presented. This knowledge may be helpful in diminishing the overall complication rate in cerebral angiography and in outlining the carotid arterial complex, which is frequently the site of dense atheromatous plaque deposition.