CT BRAIN & NECK ANGIOGRAPHY

CT Brain and Neck Angiography Overview

Computed Tomography (CT) brain and neck angiography (CT BNA) or CT brain and neck angiography is a branch of CT technology that specializes in imaging the contours of the neck and head blood vessels. It is a diagnostic imaging procedure designed without any incisions It makes use of CT scan imaging to evaluate the blood arteries and veins in detail within the neck and head region. This test is important in diagnosing and treating conditions related to blood vessels like aneurysms or blockages or malformations.  

Preparing for the Test:  

A few hours before taking the CT BNA, patients are instructed not to eat or drink anything. It is also advisable that they share any medication that they are currently taking with their healthcare provider, especially patients with allergies or kidney issues.  

What is CT Brain and Neck Angiography?  

CT BNA is an advanced imaging technique that merges the use of the standard CT scan with an angiogram. To begin the procedure, a dye known as contrast agent is injected into the patient’s arms. The dye will flow to the blood vessels as they travel through the body and the CT scanner will capture images with high resolution. The radiologists will study the images with the hopes to find irregularities in the blood streams or other problems that might affect the vascular structures in the neck or head regions. 

Types of CT Brain & Neck Angiography 

There are primarily two types of CT Brain & Neck Angiography:  

• Non-contrast CT Brain & Neck Angiography: Usually done on patients who have renal insufficiency or allergy to the dye, which does not need the contrast dye.  
• Contrast-enhanced CT Brain & Neck Angiography: The most common one that uses the contrast agent for highlighting the blood vessels. 

List of Parameters Considered During the CT Brain and Neck Angiography:

The medical staff reviews the images taken during the CT Brain and Neck Angiography for the following:  

• The width of the blood vessels, and whether they are open  
• Blood vessel obstructions caused by aneurysms, stenosis, or occlusions 
• Vascular blood flow  
• Occurrence of vascular malformations  
• Any conditions affecting surrounding structures 

Reasons for Taking a CT Brain and Neck Angiography:

The test is recommended in cases of: 

• Sudden, sharp pains in the head  
• Stroke or TIA  
• Dizziness, or balance issues  
• Changes to vision, or speech  
• Weakness, or paralysis on the face and limbs  
• Carotid artery disease 

When and Who Should Consider Getting a CT Brain and Neck Angiography? 

Here are some potential reasons why a medical professional may refer for a CT ANI.  

• Signs that may indicate a stroke or a TIA. 
• Aneurysms, AVMs, or other abnormal vascular lesions in the brain or neck. 
• Carotid artery disease or other significant stenosis of the intra cranial vascular supply. 
• Surgery on the brain or neck region such as tumour resection, Vascular anomalies repair. 
• Changing the state of treatment of the vascular lesions in the brain or neck. 
• Presence of vascular disease risk factors, such as hypertension, tobacco use, or family history. 

Benefits of Taking the Test:

• Non-invasive: Does not expose the patient to the risks of surgical angiography.  
• Rapid results: Gives an immediate view of blood vessels.  
• Accurate diagnosis: Assists in determining the presence of any vascular condition affecting the brain or neck, and its severity.  
• Treatment planning: Vital for planning required interventions such as angioplasty, stenting, or surgery. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Brain and Neck Angiography:

• Aneurysms: Abnormal bulging of an artery in the brain.  
• Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs): An abnormal connection between arteries and veins.  
• Carotid Artery Disease: A condition resulting from the narrowing or blockage of the carotid artery. 
• Stroke and TIA: Blood flows are either stopping or are being decreased within the brain. 

Preparing for CT Brain and Neck Angiography

Prior to the angiography:  

• Please take off any clothing or accessories containing metals such as jewellery. 
• Make sure to tell the technician about any prior surgeries that you might have implants. 
• Refrain from consuming food or beverages a few hours prior to the exam if given directions to do so. 
• Let them know if you have any allergies with the contrast dye or if you have any kidney problems. 

Prerequisites:  

• Fasting: Cannot eat or drink anything for a few hours leading to the exam.  
• Renal Function Tests: If there are issues with the kidneys, then these tests will be conducted. 

Best Time to Conduct CT Brain & Neck Angiography 

• This can be done at any time but are most helpful during emergencies as they are of primary concern. 

Eligibility The majority of all vascular problem patients will be able to take these tests if they have persistent symptoms relating to the neck and head, with the exceptions of those with severe kidney issues and contrast dye allergies.  

How to Conduct A CT Brain & Neck Angiography 

1. Preparation: This includes removing any metal and clothing, plus checking for IVs for contrast dye. 
2. Positioning: Moving the patient to sit reclined on the CT surgery table and sliding it into the CT machine. 
3. Scanning: Conducting an initial scan without dye and afterwards inject the contrast dye with any necessary scans. 
4. Capture: The CT scanner captures detailed images of blood vessels.  
5. Post-procedure: Check for allergies and take out the IV line. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Tell us about your pregnancy, lactation, or an existing serious illness. 
• Mention any metallic implants like pacemakers or clips from aneurysm surgery.