CT angiography of the neck

CT – computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic method that uses X-rays to create detailed, three-dimensional images of internal organs and structures. During the scanning process, the patient is placed on a table that moves slowly through a cylindrical machine, through which X-rays pass from multiple angles. A special program then combines the resulting images to create a three-dimensional image of the inside of the body. CT is used in the diagnosis of various health problems, including the detection of tumors, traumatic injuries, blood clots and other conditions. It is important to note that CT uses X-rays, which can represent a certain dose of radiation, so its use must be carefully considered in relation to the benefits and risks.

CT of the neck at the Atrijum Clinic in Sarajevo

In the Atrium Polyclinic, CT of the neck is performed on a modern CT scanner Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice. CT of the lower leg on the Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice device has several advantages compared to other CT devices:

• High resolution: Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice has high image resolution.
• Scanning speed: Thanks to the large number of detectors (in this case 160 slices), scanning is faster than on devices with fewer “slices”. This reduces the risk of motion artifacts, improves image quality, and reduces patient radiation exposure.
• Low radiation dose: Advanced image processing techniques, such as iterative reconstruction and the use of low-dose protocols, reduce the radiation dose needed to obtain high-quality images.
• Accurate diagnostics: High resolution and scanning speed enable precise diagnostics.
• Patient comfort: Faster scanning reduces the time spent in the scanner, improving patient comfort and reducing anxiety.

What is CT Angiography of the Neck?

CT neck angiography is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize blood vessels in the neck area using X-rays and contrast medium.
Before the actual examination begins, the patient usually lies on a movable table, and depending on the area being scanned, contrast medium is injected into their body, which helps create better images. After this procedure, the patient is inserted into the CT device, which emits a series of X-rays through the neck area and captures images of the blood vessels. Sensors on the other side of the CT device record the amount of radiation passing through the neck tissues and convert it into digital images that are processed into 2D or 3D images on the computer.

CT neck angiography can be used to diagnose various conditions of blood vessels in the neck area, including narrowing of blood vessels, aneurysms, thrombosis, or embolism. It can also be used to monitor treatment progress and assess postoperative conditions.
CT neck angiography is usually performed when there is suspicion of vascular diseases in the neck area, including atherosclerosis, carotid artery dissections, or tumor lesions. This procedure is less invasive than traditional angiography, which involves inserting a catheter into an artery in the neck or arm. However, CT angiography may have some drawbacks, including radiation exposure and the need for contrast medium injection, which may cause allergic reactions or side effects such as nausea or dizziness.

It is important that patients and doctors carefully consider all advantages and disadvantages of CT neck angiography to make informed decisions about the best diagnostic and treatment approach.
Before the actual CT angiography imaging, it is necessary to have a conversation with the doctor or engineer and check if the patient has known allergies or has had an allergic reaction to contrast medium, if taking medications such as metformin, antibiotics, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, if has diagnosed heart problems, asthma, diabetes, kidney diseases, or has undergone organ transplantation. Female patients should inform the doctor or technician if they are pregnant or if there is a possibility of pregnancy. Due to the contrast medium used during the examination, it is desirable not to intake fluids or food for several hours before imaging.