Computed Tomography Angiography
Computed Tomography Angiography (pronounced as kom-pyoo-ted to-mog-ruh-fee an-gee-og-ruh-fee), often abbreviated as CTA, is a medical imaging technique used to visualize the arterial and venous vessels throughout the body.
Etymology
The term "Computed Tomography Angiography" is derived from the Greek words "tomos" meaning "slice" or "section" and "graphein" meaning "to write". "Angiography" is derived from the Greek words "angeion" meaning "vessel" and "graphein" meaning "to write".
Procedure
In a CT scan, X-rays and computing technology are used to create images of the body. In a CTA, a contrast material is injected into a blood vessel to make the vessel visible during the CT scan. This allows doctors to see blood flow in the vessels and to identify any abnormalities.
Related Terms
- CT: A type of imaging that uses special x-ray equipment to create detailed pictures, or scans, of areas inside the body.
- Angiography: A medical imaging technique used to visualize the inside, or lumen, of blood vessels and organs of the body.
- Contrast Material: A substance used in radiography to increase the contrast of an image.
- X-ray: A form of electromagnetic radiation.
See Also
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