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CT Angiogram: Diagnosing Peripheral Artery Disease
CT angiogram (CTA) is a non-invasive imaging procedure that combines computed tomography (CT) scanning with a contrast dye to produce detailed images of blood vessels and tissues. This technique allows doctors to see inside the arteries and assess their health, making it a critical imaging tool for diagnosing peripheral artery disease (PAD). By providing clear, high-resolution images, CT angiograms help in detecting blockages, evaluating blood flow, and planning appropriate treatments.
CT Angiogram Candidates
Patients at risk for PAD, especially those over the age of 50 with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or a family history of PAD, should consider a CT angiogram. If you are also experiencing the following symptoms, you should consider taking this test.
- Leg pain while walking (claudication)
- Leg cramps at night (rest pain)
- Sores on toes or feet that won’t heal
- Coldness in the legs or feet
- Discoloration in the legs or feet
Benefits of the CT Angiogram
A CT angiogram provides many advantages for individuals who are at risk of or are experiencing symptoms of PAD.
- Non-invasive tests reduce the risk of bleeding and infection
- Provides highly detailed 3D images of the arteries
- Detects PAD at an early stage
- Typically takes under 30 minutes
- More comfortable experience for patients
CT Angiogram Preparation
Before the procedure, you will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your CT angiogram, which may include the following:
- Inform your doctor about any allergies you have
- Fast for 4 hours before the test
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing
- Do not wear any jewelry or metal objects
- Arrange for a ride home
Find out if you are at risk for Peripheral Artery Disease.
CT Angiogram Procedure
A CT angiogram requires injecting a contrast dye into the blood vessels. The CT scanner takes multiple cross-sectional images, which are then reconstructed by a computer to create a three-dimensional view of the blood vessels. The scan is quick, usually taking about 15-30 minutes, and involves the following steps:
- IV Insertion: A nurse or technician will insert a thin plastic tube (IV) into a vein in your arm or hand.
- Contrast Dye Injection: A contrast dye will be injected through the IV line. This dye helps blood vessels show up more clearly in the CT scan images, You might experience a warm flushing sensation or a metallic taste in your mouth during injection, which is usually temporary and harmless.
- Positioning: You’ll be positioned on a special scanning table that slides into the CT scanner, a large donut-shaped machine. Depending on the area being examined, you might be positioned on your back or stomach.
- Scanning: The CT scanner will rotate around you, taking multiple X-ray images at different angles. During the scan, you’ll need to lie still and you may be asked to hold your breath for brief moments to ensure clear images.
Once the scan is complete, the IV line is removed, and you can resume your normal activities. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the contrast dye from your system. There is minimal downtime associated with a CT angiogram, and most patients can return to their usual activities immediately.
Understanding Your Results
Our affiliated vascular specialists are interventional radiologists who will review the images from your CT angiogram. One of our interventional radiologists will assess the arteries in your legs for any blockages caused by plaque buildup. They will measure the degree of narrowing in the arteries and pinpoint the exact location of any blockages. The CTA images will show how blood flows through your arteries. If there are signs of a blockage or reduced blood flow, it can be a sign of PAD. Depending on the results, your doctor may recommend treatment options such as medication to manage symptoms and prevent further progression of PAD, lifestyle changes, and minimally invasive treatments to open up narrowed arteries, like angioplasty and stenting.
Why is a CTA Scan Important?
A CT angiogram (CTA) scan is important for the diagnosis and management of PAD. It provides an accurate diagnosis with highly detailed 3D images of blood vessels. This allows doctors to pinpoint the exact location, severity, and extent of blockages in the arteries.
This accuracy is crucial for differentiating PAD from other conditions and determining the best course of treatment. A CTA scan can also help detect complications of PAD early to prevent further issues.
Why Choose American Endovascular for Your CT Angiogram?
At American Endovascular, we offer a full spectrum of diagnostic tests to ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis for PAD. Our affiliated team is here to guide you through every step of your CTA, answering any questions you may have and addressing your concerns. We utilize the latest CTA equipment and techniques to ensure accurate and reliable results. Our advanced technology allows for detailed visualization of your arteries, which is important for effective diagnosis and treatment planning.
CT Angiogram Frequently Asked Questions
A CT angiogram is highly effective in detecting blockages in blood vessels. The contrast dye makes blood vessels visible on the CT images, showing the presence of blockages, narrowing, or other abnormalities.
Your results might be available shortly after the scan, but a detailed analysis by a radiologist can take a few days. Your doctor will review the results with you once they are available.
CTA is less invasive than traditional angiography, which involves inserting a catheter into the blood vessels. CTA uses CT imaging and contrast dye injected into a vein, making it quicker and generally safer with a lower risk of complications.
Our Vascular Specialists
Our vascular specialists in New York and New Jersey provide complete care throughout diagnosing and treating patients with PAD. If you schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, they will accurately diagnose and identify if you have PAD through a CT angiogram.
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