What is a CT peripheral angiogram?
A CT peripheral angiogram is an advanced imaging technique that involves the use of X-rays and contrast materials to visualise the blood vessels in the arms or legs. This scan is useful to detect narrowed areas or blockages in the arteries, which can indicate peripheral artery disease or other vascular issues.
What is the purpose of a CT peripheral angiogram?
A CT peripheral angiogram is usually performed for the following reasons:
- To diagnose peripheral arterial disease (PAD): A CT peripheral angiogram is one of the effective ways to diagnose PAD, a condition in which the blood flow to the arms or legs is reduced due to narrowing or blockages in the arteries.
- To identify blockages or narrowed arteries: This scan is helpful in detecting blockages or narrowing of the arteries.
- To identify aneurysms: A CT peripheral angiogram helps detect peripheral arterial aneurysms, which most commonly affect the popliteal artery behind the knee. This refers to a weakened bulge in an artery wall in the leg, which can lead to decreased blood flow, blood clots, and possible limb loss.
- To detect other vascular issues: This scan is also used to detect blood clots, injuries, and tumours in the arteries in the legs or arms.
- To determine a treatment plan: The information provided by this scan helps doctors plan or guide suitable treatment options, including surgical procedures and intervention techniques.
How is a CT peripheral 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 will then take pictures of the arms or legs, while the contrast material flows through the arteries. The X-rays rotate around the arms or legs, and the computer creates images or slices. The computer then combines the slices to generate detailed, cross-sectional pictures of the legs and arms.
What does an abnormal CT peripheral angiogram indicate?
An abnormal CT peripheral angiogram may indicate a range of conditions affecting the blood vessels in the arms or legs. The common causes of an abnormal CT peripheral angiogram may include:
- Peripheral artery disease: This is a condition where narrowed arteries cause reduced blood flow to the arms and legs. This may cause pain (especially during exercise), numbness, weakness, and coldness in the legs or feet. If left untreated, it may lead to serious complications, such as tissue death, amputation, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
- Atherosclerosis: This is a condition where plaque or a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances builds up in the arteries, resulting in narrowing or blocking the blood flow. Atherosclerosis is one of the major causes of peripheral artery disease, heart attack, or stroke.
- Aneurysms: An abnormal CT peripheral angiogram helps reveal aneurysms, which refers to abnormal ballooning or widening of the arteries.
- Other abnormalities: An abnormal result of this scan helps identify other problems, such as the cause of abnormal bleeding, and narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys or intestines.
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 peripheral angiogram scan in Pune because there are multiple CT peripheral angiogram scan centres in Pune. So you don’t need to worry about its availability. The CT peripheral angiogram scan cost in Pune may vary depending on the type of scan you opt for. Generally, CT peripheral angiogram scan prices in Pune start from rupees 6000 only.
Frequently asked questions
What is a CT peripheral angiogram?
A CT peripheral angiogram is an imaging scan that uses X-rays and a contrast material to visualise the blood vessels in the arms or legs.
Why is a CT peripheral angiogram done?
A CT peripheral angiogram is used to detect various issues related to the blood vessels, such as peripheral artery disease, atherosclerosis, and aneurysms, as well as to plan appropriate treatment options.
When do I need this scan?
Your doctor may order this scan if there is a suspicion of blockages or narrowing of the arteries or if you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease.
How long does the CT peripheral angiogram take?
A CT peripheral angiogram may take about 10-20 minutes to complete.
Is a CT peripheral angiogram painful?
No, a CT peripheral 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 peripheral angiogram uses a contrast material.