CT ANGIO ABDOMEN

Introduction 

CTA (CT Angiography) of the abdomen employs contrast-enhanced computed tomography to obtain dynamic images of blood vessels in the abdominal region. It provides a thorough examination of vessels like the aorta and its branches, veins, and other important structures. 

What is CT Angiography Abdomen? 

In CTA Abdomen, an iodine-based contrast medium is rapidly injected, followed by a CT scan. The resultant images are edited, and algorithms are employed to create detailed three-dimensional reconstructive images of the abdominal blood vessels, which allows precise identification of any vascular pathologies. 

• The dimensions and the structural integrity of the abdominal vessels. 
• Presence of any aneurysms or dissections. 
• Any occlusions or stenosis. 
• Patency of post-surgical grafts or stents. 
• Collateral circulation in obstructive diseases. 

• Diagnosis of abnormalities in vasculature. 
• Vascular assessment for planning surgery. 
• Actively bleeding or hematoma identification. 
• Abdominal pain evaluation in cases where pain is of vascular origin. 
• Patients with a family history of aneurysms require screening. 

When and Who Needs a CTA Abdomen? 

Indications: 

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm suspected or confirmed. 
• Hypertension due to renovascular disease (renal artery stenosis). 
• Follow-up after endovascular repair. 
• Ischemic disease of mesenteric arteries. 
• Trauma or haemorrhage of the blood vessels. 

Patient Demographics: 

• Patients with known risk factors of vascular diseases such as hypertension or Diabetes. 
• Patients with undiagnosed abdominal pain. 
• Patients scheduled for vascular or abdominal surgical treatment. 
• Surveillance after surgery or stent placement. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Rapid with minimal physical contact and maximally accurate 
• 3D imaging of high resolution 
• Very important for assessing blood vessels in an emergency 
• Assists in planning for the surgical or interventional procedure 

Conditions Diagnosed

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) 
• Stenosis of renal arteries 
• Ischemia of mesenteric region 
• Bleeding or other vascular injury 
• Dissection of Aorta 

• Arrive expecting to fast according to the guidelines 
• Drink water freely the day before 
• If applicable, bring previous imaging or surgical reports 
• Take off metallic jewellery and other accessories due to the risk of creating artifacts. 

Pre-requisites 

• Recent kidney function screen (eGFR/creatinine) 
• Agreement to inject contrast material 
• Evaluation for the hypothesized history of hay fever or asthma. 

Best Time to Take the Scan 

• Following the clinician's directions, especially for immediate vascular evaluations 
• Preferably during known active symptoms, if relevant 

Eligibility 

• Vascular imaging is harmless for most of the population. 
• People with severe renal dysfunction or Pregnancy require medical clearance for high-risk procedures. 

Procedure 

• The supine patient is positioned on the CT table. 
• The iodinated contrast medium is injected. 
• Imaging commences in 10-15 minutes post intravenously injecting contrast medium. 
• 3D images are reconstructed during processing. 

Caution 

• During imaging the patient must remain still; hence the scan should not be interrupted, this limits motion artifacts. 
• Report contrast reaction and renal disease history prior to the examination.