Simplifying it, angiography is a diagnostic test to produce images of the blood vessels in your body. A variant of it, the CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA), has now been realized at most institutions; it has become the gold test of choice and thus the de facto standard of care. A CTPA scan in effect, visualizes the pulmonary arteries – that is the blood vessels connecting the heart to the lungs and is predominantly for identifying any blockages in these vessels. It will additionally provide information on other areas in the chest as well. The dye is used to highlight and delineate the blood vessels. The contrast dye is injected into a cannula (a type of delivery syringe) placed into a vein of your arm/hand. The images are then obtained when the contrast flows through the pulmonary blood vessels, so then these are highlighted on the images. Post scanning, the images are processed using a specialized computer software, and reviewed in all the planes and projections by a radiologist (imaging specialist).
What preparation is required for pulmonary angiography procedure ?
A plain gown will be given to wear during the scan. All metal objects, such as earrings, necklaces and bra hooks may distort the CT images and hence should be removed. This is an examination contraindicated in pregnant women, or breastfeeding women. Special care will have to be taken if you are diabetic, taking blood thinning drugs, having renal impairment, or if you have allergy to the X-ray dye (iodine).
What is the procedure for pulmonary angiography scan ?
Your informed consent will be gained for the examination and you will be asked to lie down on a modified stretcher. A cannula is then placed into your arm vein, and through this IV line you will be given two dye injections. The modified stretcher will be moved ahead to place your chest in the ‘polo mint’. The radiographers will then continue the entire procedure from their control room. With the latest CT scanners, you will probably hear minor buzzing, clicking and whirring sounds as the machine takes images. And whilst the scan is on, the stretcher with you lying down on it will move back and forth out of the machine a few times. You will be given breathing instructions, to breathe in or out or to hold breath for a short time. After the dye is introduced into the bloodstream, it clearly delineates the pulmonary (or lung) blood vessels, making them emerge as bright white on the images. After injection of the dye, it is ordinary to experience a ‘hot flush’, chiefly across the neck and chest. This feeling fades away quite quickly and is normal. Some people also get a metallic after-taste in their mouth. Once the scanning is done with, you will be asked to wait outside while the scan is checked. If any vessel blockages are recognized, you may be referred for treatment.
What is the duration of pulmonary angiography procedure ?
The entire scanning process can take twenty minutes to half an hour.
Are there any side effects of pulmonary angiography procedure ?
Rarely, some people may be allergic to the dye. Most of the reactions are mild; radiographers are trained to recognize the signs and to look after you. Allergic reactions consist of intense hot flushing, nausea, developing a rash or becoming wheezy. Following the scan, you can go back to eating and drinking normally. The dye injection will not affect your driving skills.
How to find respiratory specialists for pulmonary angiography procedure ?
Now you can find respiratory specialists for pulmonary angiography procedure from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions and information from multiple respiratory specialists, get cost estimates for pulmonary angiography procedure from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a respiratory specialist for pulmonary angiography procedure.
Find, reach and choose a respiratory specialist for pulmonary angiography procedure on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
