Imaging Associates offers advanced CT Pulmonary Angiogram (CTPA) scans at our radiology clinics across Melbourne, Gippsland and Wagga Wagga.
What is a CT Pulmonary Angiogram?
A CT Pulmonary Angiogram (CTPA) is a specialised scan of the chest conducted with the aid of an IV contrast to detect blood clots in the pulmonary arteries, known as pulmonary embolisms (PE).
This diagnostic tool plays a crucial role in identifying and assessing pulmonary embolisms, providing valuable insights into patient care and treatment planning.
There are several reasons why a patient may be referred by their doctor or specialist for a CTPA, including:
- Shortness of breath
- Recent long-haul flights accompanied by chest pain or pleuritic pain
- Known deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Recent surgical procedures
What happens during a CT Pulmonary Angiogram?
- Upon arrival at the clinic, you will be asked to complete a CT contrast form which one of our staff will discuss with you and answer any questions you may have about any aspect of the procedure. After changing into a gown, a cannula will be inserted into a vein in your arm, and you will asked to lie on your back on the CT table with your arms raised.
- The technician will ask you to breathe in, hold your breath, and then breathe normally during the scan. The IV contrast will then be injected It is quite common that at this stage, patients may feel hot, experience a distinctive taste in the mouth or feel the need to urinate from the contrast. These sensations are brief, generally lasting only 5-10 seconds.
- After the scan, you will be asked to wait for about 10 minutes so that you can be monitored for any delayed contrast reactions. The cannula is then removed, and you can get dressed and resume your normal activities.
- Our specialist radiologists will then interpret the CTPA findings by identifying filling defects in the pulmonary arteries, an area in the lungs that the CT contrast won’t fill, which indicates the presence of blood clots. This information guides patient management, with most individuals requiring immediate medical attention and treatment with blood thinners to prevent further clotting.
What are the benefits of a CTPA?
- CT Pulmonary Angiograms are quick and easily accessible.
- They accurately and precisely locate and provide images of blood clots.
- Unlike imaging procedures such as VQ scans, CT Pulmonary Angiograms do not use radioactive isotopes (although they do use radiation.)
How do I book a CT Pulmonary Angiogram near me?
Schedule a CT Pulmonary Angiogram by completing our booking form or calling your nearest Imaging Associates radiology clinic now.
- Melbourne VIC – Boronia, Box Hill, Camberwell, Mitcham, Rowville
- Gippsland VIC – Drouin, Warragul, Wonthaggi
- Wagga Wagga NSW – Edward Street, Docker Street
Imaging Associates accepts all medical imaging referrals, even if written or printed on another radiology company’s request form.
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What do you need to know?
You will need to fast for 2 hours before the scan but are encouraged to stay hydrated.
You will be advised of any other specific instructions at the time you make your appointment or by your referring doctor depending on the scan.
What do we need to know?
Please advise us if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
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Complete our booking form to request an appointment at an Imaging Associates radiology clinic near you.
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