Veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, father of actor Salman Khan, is recuperating at Lilavati Hospital after suffering a brain haemorrhage and undergoing a medical procedure known as digital subtraction angiography (DSA). According to doctors treating him, the procedure was successfully completed and he remains stable in the intensive care unit.
A member of the medical team confirmed that the intervention was carried out smoothly and that he is responding well. He was placed on ventilatory support as a precautionary measure, with doctors expressing hope that he would be weaned off soon if recovery continues as expected.
What is Digital Subtraction Angiography and how does it work?
Digital subtraction angiography is a specialised imaging technique used primarily in interventional radiology and neurology to visualise blood vessels with high precision. It is particularly valuable in diagnosing vascular abnormalities in the brain, including aneurysms, blockages, malformations and sources of internal bleeding.
The procedure works on a simple yet technologically advanced principle. First, a contrast dye is injected into the patient’s bloodstream through a catheter, usually inserted via an artery in the groin or wrist. X-ray images are taken before and after the dye is introduced. Using digital software, background structures such as bones and soft tissues are “subtracted” from the images, leaving a clear, detailed view of the blood vessels.
This subtraction process enhances visibility and provides real-time, high-resolution imaging of arteries and veins. In cases of brain haemorrhage, DSA helps doctors identify the exact source of bleeding, detect ruptured aneurysms, or locate abnormal vessel connections that may not be visible on routine CT or MRI scans.
Neurologists often rely on DSA when precise mapping of blood flow is required. It is considered one of the gold standards for evaluating stroke-related complications and complex vascular conditions. By revealing narrowed, blocked or damaged vessels, DSA assists physicians in determining whether medication, minimally invasive intervention or surgery is required.
In many instances, the procedure not only diagnoses the issue but can also guide immediate treatment planning. For example, if an aneurysm is detected, specialists may proceed with endovascular techniques such as coiling or stenting during the same session, depending on the patient’s stability and medical assessment.
Why doctors choose DSA and what are the risks?
Doctors prefer DSA for its unmatched clarity in assessing cerebral blood circulation. Unlike conventional imaging, which may provide static images, DSA offers dynamic, real-time visualisation of blood flow. This is particularly crucial in emergency scenarios such as haemorrhagic stroke, where rapid decision-making can significantly influence outcomes.
By pinpointing the precise location and severity of vascular abnormalities, DSA enables neurologists to tailor treatment strategies with greater confidence. Early identification of hidden vessel defects can also help prevent recurrent bleeding or secondary complications.
Despite its advantages, DSA is an invasive procedure and carries certain risks, though complication rates are generally low. Medical literature suggests overall complication rates are typically below 2.5 percent when performed in experienced centres.
Potential risks include bleeding or hematoma at the catheter insertion site, allergic reactions to the contrast dye, and contrast-induced kidney injury, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal issues. There is also a small risk of vessel damage, clot formation or stroke during the procedure. In rare cases, patients may experience neurological complications if blood flow is temporarily disrupted.
Careful patient screening, sterile technique and advanced imaging protocols significantly reduce these risks. Doctors assess medical history, kidney function and allergy profiles before proceeding. Continuous monitoring during and after the procedure ensures early detection of any adverse effects.
In the case of Salim Khan, medical updates indicate that the intervention was precautionary and diagnostic in nature following the brain haemorrhage. His stable condition post-procedure suggests that immediate complications have been avoided.
Brain haemorrhage can result from ruptured blood vessels, uncontrolled hypertension, aneurysms or trauma. Rapid imaging and vascular assessment are critical in managing such cases. Procedures like DSA allow doctors to move beyond symptom control and directly evaluate the underlying cause.
For families and caregivers, the use of advanced imaging technologies provides reassurance that treatment decisions are guided by detailed vascular mapping rather than estimations. While any invasive neurological procedure may sound alarming, modern interventional radiology has significantly improved safety standards and outcomes.
As Salim Khan continues to recover under medical supervision, doctors remain optimistic about his progress. His case has also brought public attention to the importance of timely neurological evaluation and the role of advanced imaging techniques in managing complex brain conditions.
