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Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is a specialized x-ray that examines blood flow in arteries when they are filled with a contrast material (a substance that makes the blood vessels show on an x-ray). Computed tomography (CT) uses a complex machine to take x-rays from many different views, producing detailed two-dimensional images that can be combined by a computer to form three-dimensional images.
CTA can be used to view blood vessels throughout the body. It is most commonly used to study the:
This test is used to help doctors identify diseased, narrowed, enlarged, and blocked blood vessels and locate where internal bleeding may be occurring. Some specific uses include:
Some possible complications with this test include:
There are certain factors that may put you at risk for complications during this test:
An intravenous line (IV) is placed in a vein, and you will lie down on a narrow table. Pillows and straps may be used to keep you in a certain position. The part of your body that will be studied is moved inside the opening of the CT machine, and a test image is taken. You will be given a small amount of contrast material through the IV to check how long it takes to get to the area to be studied. Next, the IV is connected to an automatic injector and contrast material is injected. Then, the scan begins.
You must stay still during the scan. The technologist may ask you to hold your breath for 10-25 seconds to ensure that the images are not blurred by any movement. It only takes seconds to record all the images needed.
The images are checked. If needed, some are repeated.
After the procedure, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions. During the hours after the procedure, drink extra fluids to help flush the contrast material from your body.
20-60 minutes
Although the procedure is not painful, you may feel warm and flushed when contrast material is injected.
The radiologist (a doctor who specializes in working with medical images) will look at the images and report the findings to your doctor, usually within 24 hours. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and any treatment needed.
After the test, call your doctor if any of the following occurs:
In case of an emergency, CALL 911 immediately.
RESOURCES:
American Heart Association
http://www.americanheart.org/
RadiologyInfo
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html
Health Sciences Centre
http://www.hsc.mb.ca/
References:
Computerized tomography. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?id=FL00065. Accessed June 5, 2003.
Computed tomography angiography (CTA). RadiologyInfo website. Available at: http://www.radiologyinfo.org. Accessed May 7, 2003.
CT and MR set to play major role in evaluating coronary artery disease. Radiological Society of North America website. Available at: http://www.rsna.org/publications/rsnanews/feb03/ct_mr-1.html. Accessed May 15, 2003.
Last reviewed November 2009 by Craig Clark, DO, FACC, FAHA, FASE
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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