Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)
- What is CT Angiography (CTA)?
- Why might my doctor recommend CT Angiography (CTA)?
- How should I prepare for my CT Angiography (CTA)?
- What type of equipment is used in CT Angiography (CTA)?
- How does CT Angiography (CTA) work?
- Will I experience pain during CT Angiography (CTA)?
- How will I get the test results from my CT Angiography (CTA)?
What is CT Angiography (CTA)?
CT angiography uses X-rays to view blood flow in blood vessels throughout the body, from arteries serving the brain to those bringing blood to the lungs, kidneys, arms, and legs. Beams of X-rays create cross-sectional images that are assembled by a computer into a three-dimensional picture of the area in question.
Why might my doctor recommend CT Angiography (CTA)?
A CTA may be recommended for a variety of reasons. CTA helps visualize blood flow in the arteries that serve your kidneys, in patients with high blood pressure and those who are suspected of having kidney disorders. It also is used to identify life threatening aneurysms in heart and brain. CTA also can help detect narrowing and blockage in the arteries.
How should I prepare for my CT Angiography (CTA)?
To prepare for a CTA, we recommend you dress comfortably. Also avoid any objects that contain metal, such as jewelry, hair clips, and dentures that may interfere with the procedure. You will not be asked to wear a gown unless the technician feels your clothing could affect the results of the scan.
Depending on what part of the body is being examined, you may receive a contrast injection. Contrast material is a dye that makes your organs and blood vessels more visible when you are scanned. If contrast is used, you will be asked not to eat or drink for 4 hours prior to the procedure. After the scan you should drink plenty of liquids to help flush the contrast out of your system.
What type of equipment is used in CT Angiography (CTA)?
The CT scanner is a specialized machine that looks like a large doughnut. You will lay on a movable table that goes in and out of the center of the machine. Most CTA studies use an advanced unit called a spiral CT that records a large number of pictures in a short time.
How does CT Angiography (CTA) work?
CTA requires that you lie flat on your back. A rotating device then spins around your body creating a beam of X-rays. A detector takes snapshots of the beam after it passes through your body and a powerful computer program then processes the images and displays them in different ways for examination. The technician will communicate with you throughout the procedure, but will need to leave the room briefly to run the computer. A radiologist then reviews the images to look at the area in question. The scan will take about 5-10 minutes and the entire experience should last no more than 30 minutes.
Will I experience pain during CT Angiography (CTA)?
No, you will not experience pain from the CTA. If contrast material is used, you may feel flushed or get a metallic taste in your mouth, usually lasting no more than a minute or two. In rare cases, you may experience other side effects. Contact the CT technologist or your doctor if these occur or if you have questions about the use of contrast.
How will I get the test results from my CT Angiography (CTA)?
When your exam is complete, you may return to work or other normal activity immediately. Our board-certified radiologists will read your exam, and the results will be reported to your referring physician within 24 hours.
