CT Angiogram Scans Sydney
A CT Angiogram is a specialised CT scan that uses contrast dye to create detailed images of your blood vessels. It helps identify blockages, aneurysms, or abnormalities in arteries and veins throughout the body. At Advicon Imaging, CT Angiograms are bulk‑billed for Medicare‑eligible patients unless your doctor has specified a specialised study requiring a fee.
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Description of CT Angiogram
A CT Angiogram (CTA) is a fast, non‑invasive imaging test that provides high‑resolution pictures of your blood vessels. It is commonly used to investigate symptoms such as chest pain, headaches, dizziness, leg pain, or suspected vascular disease. CTA can assess blood flow, detect narrowing or blockages, and identify aneurysms or vascular malformations in many areas including the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and limbs.
During the study, a small amount of iodine‑based contrast dye is injected into a vein in your arm. This allows the blood vessels to be clearly visualised on the scan. CTA is often requested to rule out conditions such as pulmonary embolism, arterial stenosis, deep vein thrombosis, or vascular injury after trauma. It may also be used before or after surgery to help evaluate blood vessel structure and treatment success.
CT angiograms are significantly less invasive than traditional catheter angiograms. They do not involve inserting a catheter into the arteries, and no sedation is required. CTA is also much faster, typically completed within minutes, and produces detailed 3D images that assist your doctor with diagnosis and treatment planning.
At Advicon Imaging, our CTA studies are performed using advanced CT technology to ensure high image clarity and low radiation exposure. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure your comfort throughout the examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a CT Angiogram?
A CT Angiogram uses X‑ray images and contrast dye to examine blood vessels and detect abnormalities such as blockages, aneurysms, or clots.
Why has my doctor requested this scan?
Your doctor may want to check blood flow, rule out serious vascular conditions, investigate symptoms, or plan for surgery.
Is there any preparation?
Yes.
- You may be asked to fast for several hours.
- Avoid wearing jewellery or metal items.
- Inform us if you are allergic to iodine contrast, have asthma, kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid issues.
- Women should notify us if pregnant or breastfeeding.
What happens during the scan?
A contrast injection is given through a vein in your arm. You will lie on the CT table while the scanner takes rapid images of your blood vessels. The scan itself takes only a few minutes.
Is the scan painful?
The scan is painless. You may feel a warm sensation or metallic taste when the contrast is injected—this is normal and passes quickly.
Is contrast safe?
Contrast is safe for most patients. Rarely, allergic reactions can occur. Please advise us if you have had previous reactions or have kidney problems.
How long does the scan take?
The actual scan takes just a few minutes. Your total visit may be around 20–30 minutes including preparation.
Can I drive afterwards?
Yes. You can drive and resume normal activities unless advised otherwise.
Is there radiation?
Yes, but modern CT scanners minimise radiation while still producing high‑quality images. The medical benefits outweigh the low associated risk.
When will my doctor receive the results?
Results are usually available within 24–48 hours, with urgent results prioritised.
Is the scan bulk‑billed?
Yes. Most CT Angiograms are bulk‑billed for Medicare‑eligible patients at Advicon Imaging.