CT aortography is a non-invasive diagnostic method that utilizes computed tomography (CT) to visualize the aorta and its major branches. This technique is employed to assess the condition of the vessel walls and identify abnormalities such as aneurysms, stenoses, occlusions, and other pathological changes.
 
Advantages:
Non-invasive procedure
High precision in visualization
Capability to assess vessel wall conditions
Rapid scanning
Minimal discomfort for the patient
 
Applications: CT aortography is widely used to diagnose various conditions related to the aorta and its branches, such as:
Aneurysms: Detecting abnormal expansions of the aorta.
Atherosclerosis: Identifying cholesterol deposits causing arterial narrowing.
Aortic Dissection: Diagnosing tears in the aorta wall.
Occlusions and Stenoses: Detecting blockages or narrowing of the arteries.
Pre-Surgical Planning: Evaluating the aorta before planned surgical interventions.
Post-Surgical Monitoring: Observing the condition of the aorta following surgical procedures or stenting.
 
Preparation:
Diet: Fast for 4-6 hours prior to the procedure to prevent nausea and ensure better imaging quality.
Medications: Inform the doctor of all medications being taken, as some may affect the results or interact with the contrast medium.
Health Conditions: Notify the doctor of any allergies, kidney issues, pregnancy, or breastfeeding, as these factors may influence the procedure.
Metallic Objects: Remove all metal items (watches, jewelry, etc.) to avoid artifacts on the images.
 
Procedure:
The patient is positioned on the CT scanner table.
A contrast medium is administered through an intravenous catheter to enhance vessel visualization.
The patient must remain still and follow the medical staff’s instructions during the scan.
The scanning process typically takes a few minutes, and images of the aorta and its branches are captured from various angles.