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Fluoroscein Angiography (FA)

What is a Fluoroscein Angiography?​

A fluoroscein anigraphy refers to the injection of fluoroscein into a periphereal vein (typically in the space between the forearm and arm) while simultaneously photographing the fluoroscein (vegetable-based dye) traveling through the arteries and veins of the eye.

Why is FA performed?

The exam provides the physician with information regarding the blood flow to the retina, identifies areas of poor blood flow or abnormal blood vessel development, as well as sources of leakage. This information  can be very important in providing a prognosis, planning treatment, and assessing the response to treatment.  

What Can I Expect From the Procedure?

This procedure is performed in the office. A tournicet is placed on the arm which will be injected, a vein is located, the physician or photographer then removes the tournicet, and injects a small volume of fluoroscein into the vein.

Most patients experience no adverse side effects from the injection of this vegetable-based dye. 

 

What are the potential side effects?

Nausea and Vomiting

It is uncommon, but patients may experience a few seconds of nausea upon injection of the dye. Rarely, patients may even briefly vomit.

Anaphylaxis

The risk of anaphylaxis is 0.3%. The early symptoms are a a swollen tongue/ throat or difficulty breathing. This should be treated immediately with an injection of epinephrine (which all offices should have immediately available).

Discolored Urine

Urine will be a dark orange for up to 24 hours after the exam

Itching or Hives

This uncommon side effect responds very well to oral benadryl.

Disclaimer

This information is being provided to you for educational purposes only. Accessing or using this information does not constitute the practice of medicine nor does it establish a physician-patient relationship. This information does not replace a consultation with your eye care specialist. This information should be used at your own risk. The authors and Eye Know More do not assume any responsibility for harm incurred by the viewers. All information on the website is copyrighted and is the property of Eye Know More. Unauthorized redistribution of Eye Know More’s proprietary information constitutes a copyright violation.

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