(DSA) Digital subtraction angiography is a radiographic imaging technique to visualize the blood vessels in the human body. DSA images are produced by the (computer) subtraction of pre-contrast images (the mask) from images after introduction of a contrast medium. Subtracting background structures and enhancing the contrast provides the visualization of blood vessels in a bony or dense soft tissue environment. The images are produced in real time, as the contrast agent is injected into the blood vessels.

Image quality is an important value of all radiographic imaging procedures. Accurate measures of both image quality and patient radiation risk are needed for effective optimization of diagnostic imaging. Images are acquired for specific purposes, and the result depends on how well this task is performed. The imaging performance is mainly influenced by the imaging procedure, examined object, contrast agents, imaging system, electronic data processing, display, maintenance and the operator. Spatial resolution (sharpness), contrast resolution and sensitivity, artifacts and noise are indicators of image quality.
A high image contrast provides the discrimination between tissues of different densities.
The image resolution states the distinct visibility of linear structures, masses and calcifications.
Noise and artifacts degrade the image quality. In computed tomography (CT), high spatial resolution improves the visibility of small details, but results in increased noise. Increased noise reduces the low contrast detectability. Noise can be reduced by the use of large voxels, increased radiation dose, or an additional smoothing filter, but this type of filter increases blurring.
An image acquisition technique taking these facts into account maximizes the received information content and minimizes the radiation risk or keeps it at a low level.

See also As Low As Reasonably Achievable.

(IVP) An intravenous pyelogram is a radiographic study of the kidney, ureters, and bladder. After the injection or infusion of iodinated contrast materials into the vein, the contrast medium is excreted by the kidneys. Due to the higher density of the dye, contrast filled areas appear white on x-ray images.
IVPs are used to detect tumors, abnormalities, kidney stones, or any obstructions, and to assess renal blood flow. A pyelogram may also be performed with contrast media injection directly through a ureteral or nephrostomy catheter or percutaneously.

See also X-Ray Projection Imaging, Abdomen CT and Urologic Ultrasound.

A nonionic dimer consists of 2 joined nonionic monomers. Nonionic dimers are used as x-ray and CT contrast media.
Nonionic dimers have the lowest osmolarity. These contrast materials contain 6 iodine atoms for every 1 particle in solution (CM ratio=6). Modern CT techniques require fast bolus injections and thus low-viscosity, high-concentration, well-tolerated contrast agents. Nonionic dimers have the highest viscosity, which limits the clinical usefulness. Examples of nonionic dimers are iotrolan (Isovist®) and iodixanol (Visipaque).

See also Contrast Agents.

Digital images can be manipulated for evaluation in various ways. Post-processing includes: Subtraction, addition, rotation, inversion, multiplanar reconstruction (MPR), maximum intensity projection (MIP), etc.
Subtraction is particularly useful in contrast enhanced examinations. The pre contrast images are subtracted from the images after an injection of contrast agents (sometimes also called dye) for better tumor detection. See also Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography, Digital Subtraction Angiography and Active Zone.