CT Angiography (CTA) CTA stands for CT Angiography, which combines the technologies of CT Scan and Angiography into one non-invasive test. This test will image the blood vessels in the area of concern. A contrast agent, also called IV dye, is injected into the bloodstream via an IV placed into the arm. This contrast agent highlights the blood vessels and can help to identify problem areas. What is CT? A CT (also called CT, computerized tomography, or CAT Scan) is an x-ray technique that produces images, with the aid of a highly sophisticated computer, of your internal structures that are more detailed than those produced by conventional x-ray exams. When is a CTA Recommended? Your doctor may recommend a CTA Scan to help: Locate vessel blockages (such as clots) Determine extent of vascular disease Determine internal injuries and internal bleeding CT Scans can be performed even if you have a pacemaker or an internal defibrillator. If you are pregnant, or suspect you may be, your doctor may suggest postponing the CT Scan or choosing an alternative exam that does not involve radiation. Please notify the technologist if you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant. To Prepare for a CTA Scan: You will need to have laboratory tests performed within 2 weeks prior to your test. Your doctor’s office will provide you with the information needed to complete these pre-procedure laboratory tests. On the day of your test, please dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, with no metallic objects near the area to be scanned. Your scan will require you to have an IV injection of an iodine-based contrast (also known as x-ray dye). This helps the radiologist visualize the vessels in the body. During the injection, you may feel a warm sensation and minor discomfort during the injection, which lasts only a minute. This is a normal part of the exam. If you have known allergies to iodine (x-ray dye), please inform your physician before your exam as you may need to take some medications beforehand. You may continue to take all of your medication as normal. If you are a diabetic and take Metformin, Gluocophage, Glucovance, or Avadament, you may take your medication the morning of the exam. You must discontinue those medications for 48 hours after your scan. Before resuming you medications, you will need to have a Creatinine blood test to be sure that your kidneys are functioning normally prior to resuming your diabetic medication. This test is arranged through your doctor’s office. During the exam, you will be asked to lie on a narrow table. The CT Technologist will position the area to be studied. You will occasionally hear some simple breathing instructions. Please try to remain very still. The less movement that occurs, the clearer the images. The CT Scanner is shaped like a large doughnut, with the table centered in the “doughnut hole” in the middle. The area being imaged will be placed in the center of the doughnut, which usually results in either the head or the feet being free of the CT machine proper. The opening is large enough that most people will not feel constricted. However, if you have claustrophobia, or are concerned about becoming claustrophobic, please discuss your concerns with your physician and the CT Technologist prior to your exam. Results The results of your CT Scan will be available after a radiologist has had time to study and interpret your exam. This generally takes 4-5 business days to complete.