CT PERIPHERAL ANGIO

CT Peripheral Angiography, or CTPA, as it is often shortened to, is a test that employs X-rays in addition to a contrast agent to visualize the vessels in the legs and arms of the body. CTPA helps evaluate the presence of vascular conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD), thrombi, and aneurysms. In preparation for the procedure, patients will need to fast for a number of hours beforehand, remove all metal and jewellery, and disclose any underlying kidney issues or allergies pertaining to contrast agents. 

What is CT Peripheral Angiography? 

CT Peripheral Angiography is categorized as a form of specialized imaging test that utilizes computerized tomography (CT) technology to obtain pictures of the peripheral blood vessels. In this procedure, the blood vessels are highlighted by injecting a contrast agent to a peripheral vein and then the vessels are captured by a CT scanner to assess for blockages, narrowing, or any deviations from the normal in the blood vessels. 

Types of CT Peripheral Angiography 

Below is a list of different types of CTPA tests: 

• Standard CTPA: This is a routine examination that assesses the blood vessels in the legs and arms. 

• Upper extremity CTPA: It emphasises blood vessels in the arms. 

• Lower extremity CTPA: It emphasises blood vessels in the legs. 

List of Parameters Considered During the CT Peripheral Angiography

At the time of the test, the following parameters will comprise the evaluation:  

• The shape and diameter of the blood vessel.  

• Any occlusion, stenosis, or ulceration. 

• Hemodynamic and velocity. 

• Aneurysms or thrombus formations. 

Certain changes may apply regarding the age of the patient, preexisting conditions, and the presence of metallic components. 

Reasons for Taking a CT Peripheral Angiography

CT Peripheral Angiography (CTPA) is often used for diagnosing and monitoring the following conditions:  

• Peripheral Aneurysms 

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) 

• Varicose Veins  

• Blood clots 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Peripheral Angiography? 

CT Peripheral Angiography is recommended for patients who have: 

• Leg pain when walking (also known as claudication) 

• Coldness, numbness or weakness in the limbs (arms and legs) 

• Change in colour of the skin 

• Chronic non-healing sores or ulcers on the legs/feet 

• Swelling or Pain in the arms/legs 

Most of these symptoms point toward a possibility of developing CT Peripheral Angiography. Patients who put themselves at risk for peripheral artery disease: smokers, diabetic patients, and people with high blood pressure or high cholesterol can benefit from this. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

The advantages of using CT Peripheral Angiography (CTPA) consists of:  

• Minimally intrusive and relatively painless.  

• High accuracy in diagnosis 

• Multiple blood vessels can be evaluated at once.  

• Help decide and guide treatment. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Peripheral Angiography

A variety of vascular conditions may be diagnosed using CTPA, including: 

• Peripheral Aneurysms 

• Deep Vein Thrombosis  

• Varicose Veins  

• Blood clots 

Preparing for CT Peripheral Angiography

In attending patients should:  

• Not eat several hours leading up to the test. 

• Take off any metal items like jewellery, glasses, or clothing with metal parts. 

• Tell the physician if they have any kidney issues or allergies to contrast materials. 

• Dress in loose-fitting clothing. 

Pre-requisites 

As of now, there are no specific requirements in regards to pre-testing, however, patients are requested to keep their physician well informed of any ongoing medical issues, treatments, and allergies. 

Best Time to Take the CT Peripheral Angiography 

A visit is suitable at any time however, it is generally preferred on a morning or early afternoon appointment slot in case any testing or follow up procedures are required. 

Eligibility  

In general angiography is recommended on patients showing symptoms or are likely to have peripheral artery disease. Those who suffer from chronic renal insufficiency or have a history of allergies to contrast media will most likely need other imaging techniques. 

Procedure for Taking a CT Peripheral Angiography 

The entire process takes an average of thirty to sixty minutes, and it consists of the following steps:  

1. Preparation: The patient is laid flat on the table and asked to stop any movement.  
2. Contrast injection. A dye is supplied which is injected in the vein to make imaging of the blood vessels easier. 
3. Imaging. The computer captures the images of the blood vessels lying on the periphery.  
4. Reconstruction: The different images obtained are put together and assessed by a radiologist. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Any person being tested must alert their practicing physician of any conditions or drugs being taken as well as allergies. They must also remove all metals along with refraining from eating some hours before the test.