CT Angiography is a procedure that uses a circular scanner to produce images. It will require the use of a iodine based dye (contrast) that is injected via a cannula in your arm. This will highlight your arteries on the scan images. The CT equipment is a scanner which you will move in and out of throughout the procedure. It is thin so you are able to see outside of the scanner during the scan.
We require you to contact the department if any of the following apply to you, if the department is not contacted before the appointment and any are applicable to you the appointment may be cancelled:
- If you have any kidney problems
- Had any problems with x-ray dye in the past
- You have asthma (please bring your inhaler with you to the appointment)
- Any allergies to medications
Contact number: 020 3947 0040
You will also be asked to fill out a questionnaire before the scan. We will ask for a recent blood test called an eGFR so we can assess if it is safe to inject the contrast.
On arrival to the scanning department you will be booked in and asked to take a seat. Please be aware we run a busy service with multiple procedures, patients will be taken into separate rooms at different times.
You will be greeted by a radiographer or radiographic assistant who will help you get ready for your scan.
A radiographer or radiologist will need to place a cannula (small plasitc tube) into a vein in your arm. The cannula will be used to inject the iodine based dye (contrast). You will be asked to lie down on the table and you will be positioned for your scan. An automatic pump will be attached to your arm, this will inject the contrast during the scan. The radiographic staff will not remain in the room during the scan but you will be monitored through a window and a radiographer can see and hear you.
At some points during the scan you may be required to hold your breath, depending on what the referrer has requested.
The contrast can sometimes cause odd sensations, they should pass quickly. They can include:
- A hot flush
- A metallic taste in your mouth
- A feeling you may have wet yourself or that you need to go to the toilet.
Once the procedure is complete the cannula will be removed and we will ask you to remain in the waiting area for at least 15 minutes after the scan. This is to monitor you for any possible reactions, which are rare.
A plaster will be placed over the area the cannula was placed and we ask you keep it clean and dry for a few hours after the scan.
The scans will be analysed by the radiologist. The results will be available for the outpatient appointment with your consultant. If you do not have a follow up please contact the consultant’s secretary using the main hospital switchboard on 020 3947 0100.
Medical help via your GP / local minor injuries unit should be sought if there are any signs of the following:
- Excessive bleeding from the site
- Increased pain, swelling, redness or warmth
- Swelling in the neck, armpit or groin
- Fever / chills
If you are unable to attend this appointment please let the department know ASAP, the appointment can be used by another patient.
- X-Ray / Ultrasound MRI / CT / Nuclear Medicine: 020 3947 0040
- DXA: 020 8909 5476
- Pre operative assessment: 020 8909 5630
Page last updated: 17 February 2025