2023-09-28 15:03:57
Definition: what is a CT angiogram?
L’angioscan or vascular scan is a medical imaging test that allows you to visualize the veins and arteries of the body. It is carried out using a scanner using X-rays and the injection of a contrast product. Images can be viewed in 2D or 3D.
CT angiography is used to diagnose certain blood vessel diseases (aneurysm, stenosis, thrombosis, congenital malformation, etc.).
You can have a CT angiogram at a medical imaging center or hospital that performs this exam. Sometimes this imaging is performed in an emergency situation if the patient has signs of a heart attack or pulmonary embolism.
Indications: why do a CT angiogram?
CT angiography is used for the diagnosis of different blood vessel pathologies.
- This is the reference technique, following Doppler ultrasound, to look for narrowing (stenosis), dilation (aneurysm) or an obstruction (such as a thrombosis or embolism) of the arteries. Indeed, CT angiography is often used to explore the arteries, with lower risks than arteriography by direct puncture or catheterization. Thoracic CT angiography is particularly indicated in cases of suspicion pulmonary embolism (obstruction of an artery in the lungs).
- CT angiography also tends to replace angiocardiography to visualize the cardiac cavities and especially coronarography for the exploration of the coronary arteries (being less invasive) in the event of signs of coronary disease ormyocardial infarction For example. In the latter case we are talking regardingcoronary angiography or coroscanner.
Finally, CT angiography can be used to:
- Exploration of other vessels such as the thoracic aorta, the vessels of the supra-aortic trunks (which are intended for the head and upper limbs);
- The search of’intracranial aneurysms ;
- Exploration of the renal and digestive arteries, the small pelvis and the lower limbs.
Preparation: what precautions should you take before the exam?
If your doctor has prescribed a CT angiogram, you should make an appointment at a healthcare facility that performs this examination.
When making an appointment, you will need to indicate the existence of any possible illness or pregnancy which might compromise the examination.
People over 65 years old will need to take a creatinine test before the exam to check the health of their kidneys.
On the day of the exam, remember to bring with you your prescription and your health card which will be requested at reception. If you have old exams, bring them with you as well.
Procedure: how does a CT angiogram with injection work?
CT angiography is a quick and painless examination under local anesthesia. It is necessary to have fasted for at least 4 hours to take this exam. The patient lies on a table which will be slid into the scanner tube. An iodized contract product is injected intravenously into the area of the body to be observed. The patient is asked to hold their breath when entering the tube. The exam lasts no more than 20 to 30 minutes.
If you are claustrophobic and fear being inserted into the scanner tube, it is best to report this to the medical team present.
How to interpret the results of CT angiography?
It is the radiologist who interprets the results of the CT angiogram. The images allow him to observe if there is an abnormality such as an obstruction, dilation or narrowing in a blood vessel.
In the event of a life-threatening emergency, the patient can be transferred directly to the operating room when the examination is carried out in hospital. Otherwise, he is referred to a specialist.
CT angiography: what are the risks and contraindications?
- The undesirable effects of CT angiography are associated with the injection of the iodinated contrast product (a feeling of heat, discomfort, nausea, strange taste in the mouth are possible, etc.).
In the event of kidney failure, there is a risk of worsening of the disease, which is why in this situation it is better to opt for another test such as a Doppler ultrasound or an angio-MRI. The same applies in the event of an allergy to iodine, even if this is very rare in practice.
- There is also a minimal risk of radiation. It is therefore better to avoid repeating this examination numerous times.
After the exam you can go home. Sometimes following checking your blood pressure by the medical team. In the majority of cases, you will not feel anything once you return home. If you have received an injection, to speed up the elimination of the product, drink plenty of water (except on a special diet, in cases of heart or kidney failure).
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