CT Angiography

A computed tomography angiogram (CT angiogram) is a test that uses X-rays to provide detailed pictures of the heart and the blood vessels that go to the heart, lung, brain, kidneys, head, neck, legs, and arms. The test uses a special dye that is put into a vein (IV) to make very detailed pictures of the blood vessels.

A CT angiogram can show whether a blood vessel is narrowed or blocked. The test can also show whether there is a bulge (aneurysm) or a buildup of fatty material called plaque in a blood vessel.

Current as of: September 21, 2016

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Rakesh K. Pai, MD - Cardiology, Electrophysiology & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & George J. Philippides, MD, FACC - Cardiology