Home : Our Services : CT Angio
CT Angio
CT Angiography examines the blood vessels of the head, neck, body and legs using Computed Tomography (CT). An iodinated contrast agent (X-ray dye) is administered in to a vein to enhance the blood vessels while imaging. The resultant images are processed by a powerful computer to produce two and three-dimensional images of the blood vessels.
Before the Exam
When you make your appointment please advise us if you are diabetic or have any kidney problems.
You will be asked to follow a four-hour hydrated fast. This means you need to drink clear fluids to keep hydrated. This is important to help your kidneys remove the contrast from your blood.
On arrival you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire regarding your suitability to have contrast. When it is time for your scan you will be asked to change into a gown and remove all jewellery from the area being imaged. You will then be taken into the room and asked to lie on the CT table.
.jpg)
A cannula will then be placed in to a vein in your arm. The iodinated contrast agent will be loaded into a mechanical pressure injector and will be attached to the cannula. Our CT operators will then start the injection from the control room. Not long after the commencement of the injection you may feel a hot flush, get a funny taste and even possibly a sensation like you’re going to the toilet. Don’t worry, you’re not and these sensations will pass fairly quickly.
You may also hear a voice come from the CT machine asking you to hold your breath. While you are holding you’re breath, you will feel the table moving through the machine and the scan will be complete in a few seconds. The cannula will then be removed and you can go home.
After the Scan
You should continue to drink plenty of clear fluids to help your kidneys flush the contrast from your body. Otherwise you can go about your life as per usual.