CT VENOGRAM
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
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About The Test
A CT Venogram (also called CT Cerebral Venography) is a fast, non-invasive scan that maps the veins inside your brain and skull. At Cadabams Diagnostics, advanced 128-slice CT technology captures high-resolution images in minutes, helping doctors spot clots, blockages or malformations early—so treatment can start sooner.
What is CT Cerebral Venography?
CT Cerebral Venography is a specialised CT scan that uses intravenous contrast dye and X-ray imaging to visualise the venous sinuses and cerebral veins. The contrast highlights blood flow, revealing narrow, blocked or abnormally formed vessels that routine CT may miss.
Key features
- Takes under 10 minutes
- 3-D reconstruction for precise viewing
- Minimal radiation exposure with dose-reduction software
When and Who Needs to Take a CT Cerebral Venography?
Doctors usually order a CT Venogram if you have:
- Severe, unusual headaches
- Sudden vision changes
- History of blood-clotting disorders
- Symptoms of intracranial hypertension
- Suspected cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST)
If you are pregnant, have kidney disease or are allergic to iodine, let our team know—we’ll guide you on the next steps.
List of Parameters
We monitor:
- Venous sinus patency
- Presence of thrombus (density, size, location)
- Collateral drainage pathways
- Skull-base bone anomalies compressing veins
- Intracranial pressure signs
Why This Test
- Rule out CVST before starting anticoagulation
- Investigate unexplained papilloedema
- Evaluate congenital venous malformations
- Monitor known thrombosis during treatment
- Pre-surgical planning for brain-tumour resection
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Quick: Scan + report in <2 hours at Cadabams Diagnostics
- Accurate: 95 % sensitivity for detecting clots
- Comfortable: No long confinement like MRI
- Cost-effective: Lower price than invasive venography
Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Venogram
- Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
- Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
- Arteriovenous fistula
- Venous sinus stenosis
- Tumour invasion into venous sinuses
nal veins)
Preparing for test
- Fast 2–4 hours before the scan (clear fluids allowed).
- Remove jewellery and hairpins around the head.
- Bring previous imaging (CT/MRI) for comparison.
- Wear loose, metal-free clothing or change into our gown.
Pre-requisites
- Recent serum creatinine (<30 days) for kidney function
- Written consent after allergy screening
- Pregnancy test for women of child-bearing age (if applicable)
Best Time to Take the CT Cerebral Venography
Schedule the scan as soon as acute symptoms appear—early morning slots are ideal to avoid long fasting and receive same-day results.
Eligibility
- Adults and children >5 years (weight ≥20 kg)
- Patients with stable renal function
- Those able to lie still for 5–10 minutes
Procedure for Taking a CT Cerebral Venography
- Check-in: Verify ID and consent.
- IV line: Contrast dye injected in the arm.
- Positioning: Lie on the CT table, head in the cradle.
- Scanning: Table moves slowly; you’ll hear gentle whirring.
- Observation: 15-minute post-scan monitoring for reactions.
- Report: Digital report and images sent to your doctor within 2 hours.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform us about shellfish/iodine allergy or asthma
- Share any metformin or anticoagulant use
- Bring a companion if you feel anxious
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Scan | All venous sinuses are open, no clots detected. | Indicates healthy venous status. |
| Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST) | Clots observed within the venous sinuses. | Requires immediate anticoagulation therapy; severe symptoms may necessitate further intervention. |
| Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension | Narrowed or compressed venous sinuses without thrombosis. | May require shunting or other interventions to alleviate symptoms. |
Risks & Limitations
Common, mild reactions
- Metallic taste from contrast
- Warm flush lasting 30 seconds
Rare risks - Allergic reaction to dye (1 in 1,000)
- Kidney stress in pre-existing disease
- Radiation exposure equivalent to ~4 months of natural background (still within safe limits)
We screen every patient beforehand to keep risks minimal.
Types of CT Cerebral Venography
- Standard CT Venogram: Single-phase contrast injection
- Dual-Energy CT Venography: Enhances vessel clarity, reduces artefacts
- Dynamic CT Venography: Shows real-time blood flow in patients with shunts or fistulas
Our radiologists pick the technique that best fits your symptoms.
List of Parameters Considered During the CT Cerebral Venography
We monitor:
- Venous sinus patency
- Presence of thrombus (density, size, location)
- Collateral drainage pathways
- Skull-base bone anomalies compressing veins
- Intracranial pressure signs
FAQs
Is the CT Venogram painful?
No. The IV insertion feels like a small pinch; the scan itself is painless.
How long does the entire visit take?
Plan for 45 minutes: 15 min paperwork + 10 min scan + 15 min observation.
Can I drive home after the test?
Yes, unless you took a sedative (rare). Otherwise, you can resume normal activities.
Are there any side effects from the contrast dye?
The vast majority of patients experience no side effects. A small number might feel temporary nausea or develop a mild skin rash or hives, which usually resolve on their own. Severe reactions are very rare, but our team is always prepared to manage them.
What happens if the scan finds a blood clot?
If your CT Venogram finds an acute blood clot like a DVT or PE, the radiologist will immediately notify your referring physician. Your doctor will then start you on the appropriate treatment right away, which typically involves blood-thinning medications to prevent the clot from growing and to help your body dissolve it.