What is a CT brain angiogram?
A CT brain angiogram is a medical imaging procedure that uses X-rays and a special contrast material to visualise the blood vessels in the brain. It helps doctors examine the arteries and veins, allowing them to identify abnormalities such as blockage, narrowing, aneurysms, or other issues.
What is the purpose of a CT brain angiogram?
The primary purpose of this scan is to identify problems with the brain’s blood vessels, such as
- Blockages: Blockages or narrowing of the blood vessels can reduce blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke.
- Aneurysms: This scan can help detect the presence and identify the size of aneurysms (the widening or ballooning of the blood vessels) in the arteries.
- Blood clots: A CT brain angiogram can help detect the presence of blood clots in the blood vessels, which may cause obstruction in the blood flow and lead to stroke.
- Arteriovenous malformation: This condition is characterised by an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, bypassing the normal capillary system, which can cause abnormal patterns of blood flow.
- Stroke: A CT brain angiogram is most commonly used to evaluate the cause of a stroke, such as identifying which blood vessels are affected and determining the type of blockage or bleeding involved.
On the other hand, healthcare providers also use this scan to plan treatment for vascular conditions, which may include surgery and interventional therapy.
How is a CT brain angiogram performed?
Firstly, you will lie on your back on an examination table that slides into the round-shaped CT scan machine. The technician will insert an IV catheter into a vein in your arm, through which the contrast material will be given. The scanner then rotates around your head and takes pictures of the brain, while the contrast material flows through the arteries. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds as the machine takes several images of the head. The computer then combines the slices to generate detailed, cross-sectional pictures of the brain.
What does an abnormal CT brain angiogram indicate?
An abnormal CT brain angiogram may indicate a range of conditions affecting the brain's blood vessels and tissues. The most common causes of an abnormal CT brain angiogram may include:
- Stroke: The scan helps identify the reduced blood flow or hemorrhage in the brain that may indicate a stroke
- Aneurysms: A bulge or weakened area in a blood vessel wall can rupture and lead to abnormal bleeding.
- Hemorrhage: This condition refers to bleeding inside the brain or skull that is usually caused by trauma or aneurysm rupture.
- Arteriovenous malformation: This condition is characterised by abnormal blood vessels forming a tangle that may cause obstruction in the blood flow to the brain.
- Blocked carotid or vertebral arteries: This may occur due to an excessive buildup of plaque inside the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the brain.
- Brain tumour: A CT scan can help reveal the presence of tumours in the brain. These tumours can be either benign or malignant.
However, since a CT scan cannot definitively diagnose all conditions, your doctor may order further tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Fortunately, you can easily book a CT brain angiogram scan in Ahmedabad because there are multiple CT brain angiogram scan centres in Ahmedabad. So you don’t need to worry about its availability. The CT brain angiogram scan cost in Ahmedabad may vary depending on the type of scan you opt for. Generally, CT brain angiogram scan prices in Ahmedabad start from rupees 6000 only.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CT brain angiogram?
A CT brain angiogram is an imaging method that uses X-rays and a contrast material to visualise the blood vessels in the brain to detect any abnormalities.
Why is a CT brain angiogram done?
A CT brain angiogram is used to detect various issues related to the blood vessels in the brain, such as blockages, arteriovenous malformation, tumours, and aneurysms, as well as to plan treatment options.
When do I need this scan?
Your doctor may order this scan if there is a suspicion of abnormalities in the brain, such as blockages, narrowing, hemorrhage, tumour, or aneurysms.
How long does the CT brain angiogram take?
A CT brain angiogram may take about 30-60 minutes to complete.
Is a CT brain angiogram painful?
No, a CT brain angiogram is not painful.
Are there any side effects of this scan?
No, this scan does not have potential side effects. However, some people might be allergic to contrast materials.
Is contrast material used in this procedure?
Yes, a CT brain angiogram uses a contrast material.