Computerized Tomographic Angiography (CTA)

Computerized tomographic angiography, also called CT angiography, or CTA, is a test that combines the technology of a conventional CT scan with that of traditional angiography. Doctors use this test to create detailed images of the blood vessels in the body.

Why will I need CT angiography?
Your doctor will order the test if he or she suspects you have:

• Narrowing or obstruction of the arteries
• Aneurysm
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Pulmonary embolism
• Another vascular condition

What will happen during the test? Will it hurt?
The test itself does not hurt. However, you may experience some discomfort when they inject the dye, similar to the pain you feel when you have blood drawn.

1. You will be asked to lie on a table, as still as possible. Your body will pass through a large, donut-shaped machine, which takes picture using X-ray technology.
2. After the dye is injected into your system, the machine will take more pictures of your blood vessels. This will allow your physicians to trace the blood flow through your body, and determine whether there are any blockages.
3. The test usually takes from 20 minutes to one hour.
4. Once the test is completed, you are free to go. You should be able to resume normal activities immediately. The technician may recommend that you drink plenty of fluids that day, to help eliminate the contrast dye from your body.