Computed Tomography Angiography
Computed Tomography Angiography(CTA)How to Say It: Kom-PU-ted To-MOG-ra-fi An-ji-OG-ra-fi
by
Amy Scholten, MPH DefinitionComputed tomography angiography (CTA) is an x-ray of blood vessels. A material called contrast is used with the test. It will make the blood vessels easier to see. CTA is most commonly used to study blood vessels of the:
Reasons for TestThis test may be done to:
Possible ComplicationsProblems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
What to ExpectPrior to TestThe doctor may meet with you to talk about:
Description of TestAn IV is placed in a vein. You will lie down on a narrow table. The body area to be studied is moved inside the CT machine. You will need to stay still during the test. Contrast material is injected. As the scanner takes pictures, there is humming and clicking. The technician will ask you to hold your breath at certain times. This will help get a clear picture. After TestYou may be told to drink extra fluid. This will flush the contrast from your body. How Long Will It Take?20 to 60 minutes Will It Hurt?The test normally should not hurt. Some may find it uncomfortable to stay still during the scan. You may feel warm and flushed when contrast material is injected. ResultsThe CT images will be sent to a doctor who looks at images. Your doctor will receive the results and discuss them with you. Call Your DoctorCall your doctor if you have:
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away. RESOURCES:American Heart Association http://www.heart.org Texas Heart Institute https://www.texasheart.org/ CANADIAN RESOURCES:Health Canada https://www.canada.ca Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada http://www.heartandstroke.ca References:Coronary artery disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/coronary-artery-disease-cad. Accessed August 31, 2021. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Radiology Info—Radiological Society of North America website. Available at: https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/angiocoroct. Accessed August 31, 2021. Ozkok S, Ozkok A. Contrast-induced acute kidney injury: A review of practical points. World J Nephrol. 2017;6(3):86-99. Prevention of contrast induced complications. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/prevention/prevention-of-contrast-induced-complications. Accessed August 31, 2021. What is computed tomography angiography? Johns Hopkins Medicine website. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/computed-tomography-angiography-cta. Accessed August 31, 2021. Last reviewed July 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Nicole Meregian, PA Last Updated: 8/31/2021 | ||
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