WHAT IS CT AND MR ANGIOGRAPHY? 
The evolution of advanced imaging techniques such as CT (Computed Tomography) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) has allowed us to see inside the body in ways we never dreamed of years ago. We now can perform angiograms using these techniques without a visit to the hospital and the long recuperation period typically necessary after a standard angiogram.
Angiograms are necessary to visualize blood vessels. There are many reasons why your doctor may feel an angiogram is necessary. Typical indication include pain in the legs when walking, diseases of the brain (including stroke and stroke precursors), high blood pressure, tumors, congenital abnormalities of blood vessels, and many others.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
The CT and MR angiography usually take only about 20 minutes and involve only a small IV in the arm or wrist. You can go home immediately afterwards. The only risk involved is a very rare risk of allergic reaction to the contrast injected or risk of a superficial infection at the IV site. The technologist will discuss this with you prior to the exam. You may also have questions for the radiologist, which we will be happy to answer. The images obtained are processed with very sophisticated high speed computers and three dimensional pictures of your vessels are then available for the radiologist to review.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?
Before some exams, you'll be asked to avoid normal eating or drinking for a period of time. Usual prescribed medications should be continued. Diabetic patients may need to delay their medication until after they have eaten in order to avoid an insulin reaction. You may wear a hospital gown and may have to remove anything which interferes with X-rays such as glasses, jewelry, dentures, hearing aids, etc. Women should always inform their CT technologist if there is any possibility of pregnancy.
PLEASE INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR THE TECHNOLOGIST IF YOU HAVE ANY OF THE FOLLOWING WHICH MAY PREVENT YOU FROM UNDERGOING AN MRI EXAM:
- Pacemaker
- Metallic plate, pin or other implant
- Brain aneurysm clips
- Been a metal worker
- Been wounded during military service
HOW DO I GET THE RESULTS?
After your study is over, the images will be evaluated by one of our board-certified radiologists with expertise in CT and MR angiography imaging. A final report will be sent to your doctor, who can then discuss the results with you in detail.
Should you have any questions regarding CT and MR angiography, we will be glad to discuss them with you.
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