CT angiography is a type of medical test that combines a CT scan with an injection of a special dye to produce pictures of blood vessels and tissues in a part of your body. The dye is injected through an IV (intravenous) line started in your arm or hand.
A CT scan is a type of X-ray that uses a computer to make images of your body. The dye injected to do CT angiography is called a contrast material because it lights up blood vessels and tissues being studied.
You may need this test if you have a problem that involves the blood vessels of your brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, or other parts of your body. Healthcare providers may use the information from this test to learn more about your condition and to decide the best way to treat you. Some reasons to have a CT angiogram include:
Information from CT angiography may help prevent a stroke or a heart attack. This type of test may also help your provider plan cancer treatment or prepare you for a kidney transplant. Your provider may have other reasons for ordering this test.
There is always a slight risk for cancer from repeated exposure to radiation. But the benefits of getting an accurate diagnosis generally outweigh the risks. No radiation remains in your body after a CT scan.
Other risks include:
Angiography contrast material can damage your kidneys, so you may not be able to have this test if you have severe kidney disease or diabetes.
If you're breastfeeding, there is very little risk to continue breastfeeding after the exam. But you may decide to wait for 24 hours after this test before nursing your baby. If you're pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, tell your healthcare provider or radiology technician.
There may be other risks, depending on your specific health condition. Discuss any concerns with your provider or radiology technician before the test.
Tell your healthcare provider and your radiology technician about any medicines you take, including herbal supplements and other over-the-counter medicines. It's important to tell your provider and the radiology technician about any health conditions you may have, such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, thyroid or kidney disease, and any recent illness.
You may be asked to sign an informed consent that describes the risks and benefits of this test. You should discuss the risks and benefits with yourprovider or the radiology technician. Other preparations include:
Based on your health condition, your provider may have other instructions on how to get ready.
You may have this test done at the hospital or at another outpatient facility. The CT scanner is a large machine with a tunnel that the examining table passes in and out of. Tests may vary depending on your condition and your healthcare provider's practices.
Here is what may happen during the test:
After the test is completed, you'll have your IV line removed. In most cases, you can return to all your normal activities at home. You may be given some additional instructions after the test, depending on your particular situation.
Before you agree to the test or the procedure make sure you know: