The use of CT angiography in various pathological conditions
CT angiography is a method of research that combines two methods - computed tomography and angiography, which allows you to eventually get a fairly objective picture of the state of the vascular bed anywhere in the human body.
For such a diagnosis, a scanner, a computer and X-rays are used. As a result, a lot of images are obtained, which ultimately give a three-dimensional image of the investigated area. To check the condition of veins, phlebography is used, and arteriography, if necessary, is needed to examine the arterial bed.
What causes CT angiography?
With this type of study, it is possible to determine:
- an aneurism of the vessel wall or its stratification;
- vein thrombosis, including deep;
- PE( pulmonary embolism);
- stenosis or occlusion;
- is a different kind of vasculitis;
- damage due to injuries;
- metastases and tumors;
- atherosclerosis, including carotid arteries;
- pathological changes in the renal arteries;
- hemorrhage in the brain.
CT angiography is used to diagnose the cause of headache, dizziness, other signs that may be associated with impaired cerebral circulation. This research plays a significant role in the preparation for operative intervention on the vessels and subsequent monitoring of the patient's condition in the postoperative period.
How to prepare?
To successfully complete the procedure, you must refrain from eating food and water for 4 hours. Reception of medicines on the eve of the study is discussed with the attending physician. Sometimes the use of sedatives and desensitizing drugs is recommended to reduce the risk of developing an allergic reaction.
CT angiography should be performed in the absence of any metal object - it is necessary to remove all ornaments and parts of clothing made of metal.
Possible side effects and contraindications
Among the side effects of this method of diagnosis should be identified:
- Response to radiation.
- Allergy to the injection of contrast medium.
- Deterioration of kidney function.
- Receipt of contrast agent in soft tissues surrounding the site of its introduction.
If, after carrying out CT angiography, the patient experiences difficulty breathing, swelling, coughing, or rashes on the skin, this may indicate that an allergic reaction has occurred. If you notice even minor symptoms like this, you should immediately inform your doctor about it!
Contraindicated in the following conditions:
- renal failure;
- pregnancy;
- thyroid disease;
- obesity;
- is a severe form of diabetes mellitus;
- rhythm disturbances and a tendency to decrease pressure;
- severe general condition of the patient.
Conducting the
study A CT scan of angiography is carried out on an outpatient basis. The patient is in a horizontal position on the tomograph table. In the ulnar vein, he is injected by catheterization with a substance for contrast, about 100 ml. Simultaneously, a series of images is taken, which is then processed using a computer to produce a three-dimensional image. The doctor explains the final interpretation of the picture obtained in writing.
What is SCT Angiography?
An even more modern version of the study is CT angiography. Spiral computed tomography is that the X-ray tube and the table on which the patient is located are in constant motion, which significantly reduces the time required and reduces the radiation load on the body.
This also allows you to get a better picture of the diagnosed anatomical area and does not depend so much on minor random movements of the patient.
Indications for this type of procedure are the same as for conventional angiography. Since most studies require the introduction of a contrast agent, its intolerance can serve as a contraindication to the use of SCT angiography.
CT angiography of vessels does not require a certain regimen. After the meeting, you can immediately engage in their usual affairs. To remove the contrast medium, it is recommended to drink up to 1.5 liters of mineral still water the first day after diagnosis.
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