Indocyanine Green Angiogram (ICG)
Indocyanine green angiogram (ICG) testing is a type of angiography that helps diagnose a number of retinal conditions. This angiography is able to identify eye disease in the choroidal vessels behind the retina that may not be visible on the flourescein angiogram (FA).
The ICG uses a different type of dye than used in the FA test. This dye, which is injected in your arm vein, will circulate throughout your body and eventually, through your eyes. A special camera, which views infrared images, will be used to take pictures of your eyes over a period of about 20 minutes.
Your eye will be dilated for this test. When the dye is injected into your arm, you may feel a sensation of warmth throughout your body. However, this will only last for a few seconds.
This test is considered to be very safe with limited side-effects. However, if you are allergic to iodine or shellfish or have severe liver disease, please discuss this with your doctor.
It will take at least one hour for the complete testing cycle. You will not be able to drive after the test due to your eyes being dilated. Therefore, you should make arrangements for someone to take you to our office. Your eyes will remain dilated for about three to six hours following the test, and you will be able to resume your normal activities thereafter. This test is done at our Plymouth Office only.
Unlike other types of angiograms, the FA and ICG angiograms use special fundus cameras and not x-rays. Therefore, you will not be exposed to any radiation during the testing.
