CT Pulmonary Angiogram

Imaging Associates offers advanced CT Pulmonary Angiograms (CTPA). CT Pulmonary Angiograms are used to diagnose pulmonary embolism (PE) and other pulmonary conditions.

Our dedicated team is committed to delivering high-quality specialised imaging services to support your respiratory health needs.

Understanding CT Pulmonary Angiograms

A CT Pulmonary Angiogram is a specialised scan of the chest conducted with the aid of an IV contrast to detect blood clots in the pulmonary arteries, known as pulmonary embolisms. This diagnostic tool plays a crucial role in identifying and assessing pulmonary embolisms, providing valuable insights into patient care and treatment planning.

Indications for CT Pulmonary Angiograms

There are several reasons why a patient may be referred by their doctor or specialist for a CTPA:

• Shortness of breath
• Recent long-haul flights accompanied by chest pain or pleuritic pain
• Known deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Recent surgical procedures

The Procedure for patients

Preparing for a CTPA is straight forward:

• You will need to fast for 2 hours before the scan but are encouraged to stay hydrated.
• Upon arrival at the clinic, you will be asked to complete a CT contrast form which one of our staff will discuss with you and answer any questions you may have about any aspect of the procedure. After changing into a gown, a cannula will be inserted into a vein in your arm, and you will asked to lie on your back on the CT table with your arms raised.
• The technician will ask you to breathe in, hold your breath, and then breathe normally during the scan. The IV contrast will then be injected It is quite common that at this stage, patients may feel hot, experience a distinctive taste in the mouth or feel the need to urinate from the contrast. These sensations are brief, generally lasting only 5-10 seconds.
• After the scan, you will be asked to wait for about 10 minutes so that you can be monitored for any delayed contrast reactions. The cannula is then removed, and you can get dressed and resume your normal activities.

Benefits of CTPA

CT Pulmonary Angiograms are quick and easily accessible. They accurately and precisely locate and provide images of blood clots.  Unlike imaging procedures such as VQ scans, CT Pulmonary Angiograms do not use radioactive isotopes (although they do use radiation.)

If as part of taking proactive steps towards safeguarding or improving your cardiovascular health, you require a coronary calcium score scan, please contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Risks and Considerations

While generally safe, potential risks of CTPA include contrast reactions and extravasation of contrast into tissue around the cannula site. Patients with compromised renal function, those who have experienced prior CT contrast reactions, or pregnant women may have contraindications to CT Pulmonary Angiograms. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before referring you for a CT Pulmonary Angiogram. Our specialist staff will be happy to address any concerns you might have before you have this procedure.

Interpretation and Reporting

Specialist radiologists interpret CTPA findings by identifying filling defects in the pulmonary arteries, an area in the lungs that the CT contrast won’t fill, which indicates the presence of blood clots. This information guides patient management, with most individuals requiring immediate medical attention and treatment with blood thinners to prevent further clotting.

Book a CT Pulmonary Angiogram

At Imaging Associates Radiology, we prioritise your respiratory health by offering advanced CT Pulmonary Angiograms and personalised care.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take proactive steps towards maintaining optimal lung function and well-being.

Book an appointment

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