CT ANGIOGRAPHY

WHAT IS CT ANGIOGRAPHY?

CT Angiography is a test that uses x-rays to see blood flow through your arteries and veins. Together with a computer, detailed images and 3D pictures are created.


WHY SHOULD I HAVE A CT SCAN?


This procedure can be used to study the blood flow to your brain, legs, lungs, kidneys, and so on. Your doctor may order this test if you have pain in your legs, high blood pressure, tumors, and if he/she suspects a stroke. This test requires an order from your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.


ORDERS, SCHEDULING, AND INSURANCE - WHAT DO I DO BEFORE THE EXAM?


  • An order is required for all CT exams
  • You can call us directly to schedule your exam, or your Providers office may and schedule the exam for you
  • Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine any coverage restrictions or limitations
  • Call your insurance prior to your exam to determine any prior authorization or notification requirements
  • You can find more information on billing here: BILLING


EXAM PREPARATION - WHAT DO I DO BEFORE THE EXAM?


  • Read over our “Preparing for Your Imaging Exam“ page
  • Wear warm and comfortable clothes with no metal, for example: no zippers, buttons, or grommets.
  • Avoid wearing jewelry or other metal accessories as they will need to be removed prior to your exam.
  • Please refrain from eating 4 hours before your exam and drink plenty of fluids before and after your exam.
  • Ask your Provider about any medications you are taking, and bring a copy your current medications list with you to your imaging exam
  • If you are pregnant and/or breast feeding, or could possibly be pregnant, please let us know


Certain exams require contrast (x-ray dye, iodine) in your body before the test starts. This contrast can highlight specific areas in your body, such as the GI tract or vascular system, that will result in a higher quality image. Contrast can be given in a variety of ways: IV needle in your arm, a tube in your rectum (enema), or a liquid (barium sulfate) that you drink.

When you are scheduled for the exam, you will be told if you will receive contrast or not. If contrast is used in your exam, please be aware of the following:


  • You will be asked not to eat or drink for at least 4 hours before the exam. Fasting will allow for the highest quality images.
  • Most of our contrast contains iodine, so please inform us (or your doctor) if you have an allergy to iodine.


If you have any questions about the preparation instructions, please call our office at 309-743-0445.


HOW LONG WILL THE EXAM TAKE?


This test takes about 30 minutes to complete.


WHAT WILL THE EXAM BE LIKE?

You may be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any jewelry. You will then be escorted to the exam room and placed on the table.


The CT scanner consists of a narrow table and a large donut-shaped ring. For the exam, the table will move through the opening as a series of x-ray beams rotate around you. A computer in the machine will take these pictures and recreate a 3D image. You will need to remain still for the exam because movement can make the pictures blurry.


WHAT HAPPENS WITH MY TEST RESULTS?


One of our specially trained Radiologists will study the images of your test and send a final written report to your ordering provider (doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant) within 24-48 hours, unless prior imaging is needed for your exam, in which case it may take longer.


Your ordering provider can then discuss the results with you in detail. If you want to discuss your results you will need to contact your ordering provider. Every Provider’s office has different procedures and turnaround time for discussing results of exams. Our staff is not able to discuss the specifics of the results with you or give you a diagnosis.


WHAT IF I HAVE FURTHER QUESTIONS?


If you have any further questions or concerns about this procedure, please contact our office at 309-743-0445 or call your doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.

View the CT Brochure

ACCREDITATION

The American College of Radiology gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards.  Advanced Imaging Center is proud to display this seal of accreditation.  It demonstrates our high standards by providing you with the best quality imaging available. Advanced Imaging Center has been accredited by the American College of Radiology in CT since 2000.
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