It is a special type of computed tomography (CT) scan that can sometimes yield detailed images of blood vessels in the chest to help the doctor determine any abnormalities in the blood vessels that may be suspected in the chest, any blockage of blood vessels in the chest, any aneurysm, or other disorder affecting these blood vessels. The imaging protocol is dependent on the clinical condition (suspected pulmonary embolism or suspected aortic disease).

About CT Thorax Angiography

The blood vessels in the chest can be assessed by an advanced imaging test called CT Thorax Angiography. It's a technique that combines computed tomography and an intravenous contrast material, which helps the vessels 'stand out' from their surrounding tissue and gives detailed cross-sectional images. The examination can take place in the pulmonary arteries, thoracic aorta, or other blood vessels in the chest, as the physician suggests. It can be utilized in the analysis of potential blood clots, constriction of blood vessels, aneurysm, arterial injury, and other irregularities of blood vessels in the chest.

What is CT Thorax Angiography?

Computed Tomography (CT). Angiography is a type of imaging that is employed to study blood vessels. In CT Thorax Angiography, doctors inject a special kind of dye (contrast) into a vein. A set of images is then taken using CT to show the targeted blood vessels. The examination can provide information about the size, way, and form of the vessels examined. The scan protocol is selected as per the question, as both pulmonary and CT aortic angiography are acquired in different protocols.

Common Reasons for CT Thorax Angiography

• Suspected pulmonary embolism: Performed when a pulmonary CT angiography protocol is indicated, to assess for pulmonary artery emboli.
• Aortic dissection: Useful to diagnose if aortic dissection is suspected.
• Arterial Blockage: Evaluates selected possible aortic, pulmonary, or systemic venous or arterial circulation blocks.
• Major blood vessels: May be recommended for blood vessels damaged by serious trauma to the chest.
• Abnormalities of blood vessels in the chest: Assesses some abnormalities of blood vessels in the chest.
• May be advised if the doctor believes the chest symptoms are due to a problem in the blood vessels.
• Pre-operative assessment: Are there procedures in which a detailed vascular anatomy is performed before selected thoracic and/or vascular surgeries.
• Post-treatment evaluation: Post-treatment evaluation of target vascular disease.
• Previous abnormal imaging; suggestions of vascular abnormality: Additional information regarding a previous abnormal imaging that has raised concerns for vascular abnormality.

Conditions Evaluated

Pulmonary Embolism

The scan may reveal clues to blood clots in the pulmonary arteries if it is already done as a pulmonary CT angiography scan. This is of importance if the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism is suspected on clinical signs and assessment.

Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm

CT will provide evidence of whether the thoracic aorta has excessive abnormality in size and will provide some information about location and size. Results obtained from this can be used to select an appropriate monitoring or treatment.

Thoracic Arterial Abnormalities

Abnormalities, if present, during the scan might include narrowing or blockage of the major arteries in the chest or changes in the structure of the arteries.

Traumatic Vascular Injury

If there is suspicion of an injury to the thoracic aorta or other large vessels following a major chest injury, then a CT angiography can be performed to confirm the injury (this depends on the protocol of the CT scan).

Vascular Malformations

Computed Tomography (CT) scan should be used as an option to gain further insight into some of the abnormal blood vessels in the chest, and to aid in further clinical assessment.

Post-Procedural Vascular Assessment

A CT Thorax Angiography might be recommended if clinically indicated to evaluate stents, grafts, or other abnormalities previously completed.

Pre-Procedural Vascular Mapping

Thoracic blood vessel images give thorough knowledge of the vascular anatomy used for the development of the chosen surgical/endovascular procedure.

Why Choose Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy?

Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy is an NABL & NABH Accredited Diagnostic centre offering all the advanced facilities of Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Pathology in one place. We have modern diagnostic technology, experienced specialists, and patient-focused care for our imaging services. Our goal is to deliver excellent diagnostic imaging and clinically reliable reporting that aids decision-making.

Book Your CT Thorax Angiography

If your doctor advises you to have a CT Thorax Angiography, contact Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy to book an appointment as soon as possible. Bring your meds and information from imaging scans, previous and any relevant medical records (if available). Before the examination, the centre will be informed of any previous reaction to contrast, kidney problems, thyroid-related medical conditions, or medical history that is pertinent.