What is Vascular CTA?

There are numerous types of vascular diseases, and some cannot be accurately diagnosed solely based on symptoms. Professional examinations are often necessary to understand the internal conditions of the vasculature. In such cases, vascular CTA technology may be employed. Vascular CTA, short for computed tomography angiography, is a non-invasive method for evaluating the vascular system and diagnosing vascular pathologies.

Vascular CTA is a non-invasive examination method for assessing the vascular system, also known as non-invasive vascular imaging technology in medicine. During the examination, a contrast agent is injected into the blood vessels. Since X-rays cannot penetrate the contrast agent, CTA utilizes this characteristic to diagnose vascular pathologies by processing the images displayed under X-rays through a computer. After intravenous injection of the contrast agent, spiral CT scanning is performed, followed by three-dimensional reconstruction. Structures such as skin, muscle, and bone that are not needed for display are removed, leaving only the three-dimensional vascular and internal organ structures visible. CTA allows for the observation of vascular malformations, atherosclerotic plaques, abnormal narrowing and dilation, arteriovenous fistulas, aneurysms, arterial dissection, and other pathologies.

CTA has been widely used in clinical practice, including for coronary arteries, cerebrovascular, carotid, and pulmonary arteries. It provides clear and accurate images. The commonly used vascular contrast agent is iodine-based, and in rare cases where iodine is contraindicated, carbon dioxide may be used as an alternative.

CT angiography (CTA) refers to the three-dimensional display of the intracranial vascular system after intravenous injection of iodine-containing contrast agents and image processing by a computer. It can replace some DSA examinations. CTA can clearly show the cerebral arterial circle (Willis circle), as well as the anterior, middle, and posterior cerebral arteries and their major branches, providing important diagnostic evidence for occlusive vascular diseases. It can advance the diagnosis of ischemic cerebrovascular diseases to within 2 hours after the onset of symptoms.

1. Allergy to contrast agents

2. Severe abnormalities in heart, liver, or kidney function

3. Pregnant women, those trying to conceive, or those suspected of being pregnant

Clothing: Avoid metal accessories (including necklaces, earrings, and underwire bras)

Medication: Normal medication can be taken three hours before the examination. Depending on individual circumstances, doctors may provide specific recommendations. Diabetic patients can have a light breakfast three hours before the examination, and based on their medication, doctors may advise them to discontinue oral medications for 48 hours after the examination.

Diet: Do not eat for three hours before the examination and drink plenty of water.