CT Angiography
A CT Angiography (CTA) is a minimally invasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Angiography uses one of three imaging technologies:
- X-rays with catheters
- Computed tomography (CT)
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
In many instances a contrast material is painlessly injected into a peripheral vein to produce detailed images of both blood vessels and tissues.
Key areas of the body where CT angiography is used:
- Brain, Kidneys, Pelvis, Legs, Lungs, Heart, Neck, Abdomen
A CT angiogram can show whether a blood vessel is blocked, where the blockage is, and how big the blockage is. Physicians also use this technology to detect and identify disease and aneurysms and to determine if there is a buildup of fatty material called plaque in a blood vessel.
About the Procedure
During a CT angiogram, you lie on a table that passes through a donut-shaped opening in the scanner. A special dye (contrast material) may be painlessly injected into your veins using an IV in your arm or hand. The contrast material is used to make the blood vessels easier to see on the scan. In some cases, if your heart is the focus of the exam, you may be given a beta-blocker to slow your heart rate during the test.
A CT angiogram is a less invasive procedure than a standard angiogram. A traditional angiogram procedure involves inserting a catheter through your artery; while with a CT angiogram exam no catheters or tubing is involved.
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