CT Angiography

CT angiography is the dedicated study of the blood vessels of the head or body. This type of examination involves an injection of x-ray dye through a vein in the arm to enhance the vessels, which are then imaged utilizing the CT scanner.

This technique can be used to image the vessels of the brain, neck, chest, heart, pulmonary system, gastro-intestinal tract, kidneys and limbs. The examination usually takes approximately 10 minutes to perform.

Preparation

You will be asked to fast for 2 - 3 hours before the test. This is generally the only preparation needed, however if you are diabetic and take metfomin therapy, you (or your doctor) may need to provide blood test results which demonstrate adequate renal function. Metformin should be ceased on the day of examination and not taken for 48 hours after the examination. CT coronary angiography does have a more detailed preparation, please see CT coronary angiography for the details.

Results

This examination will take more time than a normal CT due to the extra data processing involved, but results should be available on the day of examination. CT coronary angiography will take at least 48 hours before results are available.