CT Angiography

Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) is an examination that screens for arterial disease by utilizing x-rays from a CT or “CAT” scanner. This exam visualizes vascular structures throughout the body, including arteries serving the brain to those bringing blood to the heart, lungs, kidneys and arms and legs.

Exam preparation

Preparation for your CTA will depend on the type of exam; a CDI representative will call you prior to your appointment to provide specific instructions, and review health and insurance information.
Notify a member of CDI’s staff if you are nursing or if there is a chance you could be pregnant or if you are breast feeding.
Bring prior x-rays or scans with you to your exam, if instructed.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration.

During the exam – what to expect

First, you will have an I.V. put in so that you can receive a dose of contrast (dye) material into a vein to help enhance blood vessels during the exam. Once the contrast is injected, you may feel a warm, flushed sensation, and experience a metallic taste in your mouth that lasts for about two minutes.
You will lie on a cushioned table, and once comfortably positioned, the tabletop will move through a gantry (shaped like a big donut), which houses the x-ray tube and a set of detectors.
In some cases, a special “coil,” a device to hold part of your body, is used to ensure proper alignment.
Multiple, low-dose x-rays are passed through the body at different angles. Images are acquired by detectors that measure the x-rays that pass through your body.
A powerful computer program processes the images and makes it possible to display them in different ways, for instance, in cross-sectional slices or as three-dimensional pictures of the blood vessels.

After the exam – what to expect

A radiologist who specializes in a specific area of the body will review your images (i.e., a neuroradiologist will review images of your brain).
The radiologist prepares a diagnostic report to share with your doctor.
Your doctor will consider this information in context of your overall care, and talk with you about the results.

If you have additional questions about your appointment or our services, check out our Frequently Asked Questions or contact your local CDI center.