Computed Tomography Angiogram (CT Angiogram)

Aortic CT Angiogram, Brain CT Angiogram, Carotid CT Angiogram, Cerebral CT Angiogram, Coronary Artery CT Angiogram, Heart CT Angiogram, Kidney CT Angiogram, Renal CT Angiogram

Test Overview

A computed tomography angiogram (CT angiogram) is a test that uses X-rays to provide detailed pictures of the heart and the blood vessels that go to the heart, lung, brain, kidneys, head, neck, legs, and arms.

A CT angiogram can show whether a blood vessel is blocked, where the blockage is, and how big the blockage is. The test can also show whether there is a bulge (aneurysm) or a buildup of fatty material called plaque in a blood vessel.

During a CT angiogram, you lie on a table that passes through a doughnut-shaped opening in the scanner. A special dye (contrast material) is put in a vein (IV) in your arm or hand to make the blood vessels easier to see on the scan. If you are having a CT angiogram to look at your heart and the blood vessels that go to it (coronary arteries), you may be given a medicine called a beta-blocker to slow your heart rate during the test.

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Author:	Eileen Ellig	Last Updated: May 8, 2009
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine John A. McPherson, MD, FACC, FSCAI - Cardiology
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