Radiology Group | Exam Descriptions

Imaging Excellence in the Quad Cities Since 1945

CT (computed tomography) angiography (CTA) is a detailed exam that uses x-rays to view blood flow in arteries and veins while simultaneously injecting intravenous (IV) contrast into a vein in your arm. Blood flow can be visualized and analyzed throughout the body - from arteries serving the brain to those bringing blood to the lungs, kidneys, arms, legs, and heart. In patients with tumors, CTA can reveal the details of arteries feeding the growth.

The CT scanner and a specialized computer combine to create highly specific three-dimensional pictures (images). These images can be used for surgical planning. Compared to catheter angiography, a surgical procedure which involves injecting contrast material into a major artery, CTA requires no hospitalization or recuperation, is much less invasive, and is a far easier procedure for patients. After a CT Angiography exam, patients return to work or home and immediately resume normal activities.

IV contrast is a solution that is injected into your veins and appears very bright white on a CT image. This material allows for enhanced visualization of the blood vessels in your body. When the IV contrast is injected into a vein you may experience a sensation of being warm or flushed throughout your throat, chest, abdomen and pelvis. This is normal and may last 1-2 minutes. IV contrast is filtered from your blood by your kidneys and will be passed, unnoticed, from your body in your urine. You may safely drive home after having IV contrast.

CT Scan

Do not eat or drink 2 hours prior to the exam.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Metal objects can affect the image, so avoid clothing with zippers and snaps.
Inform your doctor or Radiologic Technologist if there is any possibility you are pregnant.

It is important that you inform the Radiologic Technologist before your exam if:

You have asthma
You are allergic to any foods or medications
You may be pregnant or breastfeeding
You are diabetic and taking Glucophage (metformin)

You will lie on a firm table that slowly moves inside the donut-shaped CT scanner. The table will move into the open center of the donut as the x-rays are being taken. In order to obtain the best images possible, you will be asked to lie very still during the scanning and you may have to hold your breath for brief periods.

As part of the exam, IV contrast is injected into a vein. In less than 5 minutes the CT captures hundreds of cross-sectional images of the area being scanned. Afterward, a powerful computer reconstructs a three-dimensional image that your physician or surgeon can view from any angle.

The time required for the exam is different for everyone. Because a CT angiogram is a specialized exam it could take from 10 to 15 minutes from the time you enter the room.

You may resume your normal daily routine after your exam. Because you were given IV contrast for your exam, be sure to increase your fluid intake to help clear the material from your system.
CT Angiography

A Radiologist (a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing disease and injury using medical imaging technology) analyzes and interprets your exam within 24 hours. He/she dictates a Report of the findings and sends it to your physician. Your physician's office will inform you of your results. Due to the number of patients your physician serves, it may be 7 to 10 days before he/she is prepared to respond to your Report.

It is not possible for our office to determine individual coverage. Coverage for imaging tests is variable and depends on your insurance carrier, your plan, any exclusions, and sometimes the reasons for the examination. Prior to undergoing any imaging test, please call the number on the back of your insurance card to determine if it will be covered.

Contact us at (563) 359-3931

CT Angiography patient brochure (PDF)
www.radiologyinfo.com

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