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The method of studying CT (computed tomography) of the abdominal aorta and its branches is to obtain a three-dimensional image of the abdominal part of the aorta and its large branches, namely: mesenteric, splenic, renal arteries and celiac trunk. In the process of scanning with the help of the device, a lot of images of a certain area under study are obtained with an interval of 1 mm in 3 planes. The method allows you to determine even minimal pathological abnormalities and examine small vessels. The procedure is always carried out with the introduction of a contrast agent.
Advantages
Due to the fact that CT has a low radiation exposure, the procedure can be performed several times. Compared with other research methods, computer diagnostics has a minimum number of limitations. The device for CT does not generate magnetic fields, so even patients with metal structures in the body, various electronic implants, including pacemakers, are allowed.
Indications for CT (computed tomography) of the abdominal aorta and its branches
Among the indications for CT studies, it is worth noting: aortic dissection or suspected thrombosis, traumatic injury, the formation of tumors in the vessels, control diagnostics after surgical intervention on the vessels, planning tactics for surgical intervention, pain in the abdomen of uncertain etiology, atherosclerotic lesions of the abdominal aorta and its branches, the presence of aneurysms and other vascular anomalies.
Contraindications to the procedure
Among the contraindications for conducting research, it is worth noting: terminal states, severe liver or kidney failure; individual allergic reaction to the contrast agent; patient weight over 200 kilograms; pregnancy. During the lactation period, a woman should stop breastfeeding for 48 hours after the study due to the risk of exposure to the contrast agent on the infant.
Alternative Methods
Studies of the abdominal aorta and its branches can be carried out not only by means of CT, sometimes doctors prescribe an ultrasound scan (doppler ultrasound). The principle of ultrasound is to reflect the ultrasonic signals of blood cells. This method allows, translucent vessels, to determine the obstacles and other features of the blood flow. Even more effective is the technique of duplex vascular scanning. Duplex studies allow not only to determine the features of the walls of blood vessels, the presence of changes or blood clots, but also to find out the speed of blood movement and other features of blood flow (due to color).
Preparing the patient for the study
The first thing to remember is that the diagnosis is carried out on an empty stomach (at least you can’t eat 3 hours before the procedure). The patient must have:
- referral from the attending physician;
- results of a previous study (if any).
If the patient has no contraindications to the diagnosis, then the procedure can be performed without a doctor’s appointment at the request of the patient.
Algorithm of actions during CT
Since the study is always carried out with the use of a contrast agent, an allergological test is done before the procedure for the presence of a reaction to the contrast agent (iodine) so that there are no complications during the scan. In addition, it is necessary to take blood tests to determine the functional state of the liver and kidneys. It is recommended to remove all wearable metal objects and, if possible, prostheses. The procedure can take from 10 minutes to half an hour.
For examination, the patient lies on his back. After that, a contrast agent is injected into the vein. The specialist who conducts the study is in the room next door. If the patient suddenly became ill during the study period, he can give the doctor a signal using a signal bulb.
During the diagnostics, a large number of layer-by-layer clear images are taken, on the basis of which a 3D model will be created.
After the procedure, it is recommended to drink a large amount of water in order to remove the contrast from the body as quickly as possible and without much stress on the kidneys. While waiting for the results, the patient is given a detailed consultation on what to do in the next few hours.
Contrast enhancement
CT scan of the abdominal aorta and its branches is always done with an intravenous contrast agent based on iodine. This allows you to get the most clear and informative pictures.
Conclusion doctor
After the end of the CT procedure, the doctor prepares a conclusion within 15 minutes. After that, all obtained images and a detailed conclusion are transferred to the patient. If desired, all results from the clinic can be sent to e-mail or recorded on electronic media to choose from: a flash drive or disk. Then the patient provides the results to the cardiologist, who decides on further actions: drug therapy, additional studies, hospitalization, or the need to send for an additional consultation with a vascular surgeon.
CT for children
This research method is suitable for children from the age of 14, not earlier. For babies, other research methods are used, such as dopplerography, etc.
Where can I get a CT
This research method can be carried out in special diagnostic clinics or in large regional centers. Before passing, you will need to sign up in advance, since usually the number of appointments per day is strictly limited.