CT Imaging

Multi-detector CT technology has enabled radiologists to assess vascular structures throughout the body without the need for an interventional procedure in theatre. Contrast medium containing iodine, injected intravenously followed by a saline injection, creates a bolus of contrast agent in the arterial system and generates an angiographic image.

CT Angiography is particularly useful for diagnosis and evaluation of diseases of blood vessels in the brain, kidneys, legs, lungs, heart and neck, especially in the
following contexts:

• Atherosclerosis in the arteries of the neck which can lead to a stroke due to narrowing or occlusion of the carotid or vertebral arteries.
• Pulmonary embolism – clots in the arteries that supply the lungs
• Aneurysms in the brain and aorta.
• Planning for stenting of diseased vessels and evaluation post-stenting.
• Atherosclerosis in the arteries of the legs. The angiogram helps with the planning of the angioplasty or stenting procedure.
• Renal transplant planning. The angiogram helps to identify the number, position and condition of the arteries supplying the kidneys. This information is important when evaluating a candidate as a potential kidney donor.
• Pre-operative planning for the removal of a tumour.
• Identifying injury to blood vessels associated with trauma.