Computed tomography angiography of the legs

Leg CT angiography (CTA) is an advanced diagnostic imaging method used to visualize the arteries and veins of the lower extremities in detail. This examination provides comprehensive information about the condition of blood vessel walls, vessel diameter, blood flow, and potential pathological changes such as atherosclerotic plaques, aneurysms, stenoses, thrombosis, or varicose veins.

What is Leg CT Angiography?

Computed tomography (CT) is an imaging examination that uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal structures. Angiography means that the examination is performed using a contrast agent, which is injected into a vein. The contrast agent travels through the blood vessels, allowing them to be clearly visualized on CT images.

Leg CT angiography is particularly useful for evaluating vascular diseases of the lower extremities, as it provides high-resolution images that enable accurate assessment of arterial and venous wall integrity, identification of narrowing, dilatation, thrombi, and other vascular abnormalities.

When is Leg CT Angiography Performed?

This examination is most commonly performed when the following vascular conditions of the legs are suspected or diagnosed:

• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): atherosclerotic plaques that narrow the arteries of the legs, causing leg pain while walking (intermittent claudication), numbness, or trophic disorders.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): blood clots in the deep veins of the legs that may lead to pulmonary embolism.
• Aneurysms: dilation of the arterial wall in the legs.
• Stenosis: narrowing of blood vessels, restricting blood flow to the lower extremities.
• Varicose Veins: enlarged and tortuous veins.
• Trauma: vascular injuries of the legs following trauma.
• Before and After Surgical Procedures: for planning vascular interventions (e.g., stent placement or bypass surgery) and evaluating treatment outcomes.
• Unexplained Leg Pain, Numbness, Weakness, or Swelling: when a vascular cause is suspected.

Procedure in the Clinic

Leg CT angiography is performed in the radiology department.

1. Preparation: the patient lies on the CT examination table. In some cases, fasting for several hours before the procedure may be required.
2. Contrast Agent Administration: a contrast agent is injected into a vein.
3. Imaging: the CT scanner acquires a series of images while the contrast agent passes through the arteries and veins of the legs.
4. After the Procedure: the patient is monitored for a short period. Recommendations regarding fluid intake are provided to help eliminate the contrast agent from the body.

The procedure is quick and generally well tolerated.

Interpretation of Results

CT angiography images are analyzed by a radiologist. The specialist evaluates the diameter and condition of the arteries and veins in the legs, looking for stenoses, aneurysms, atherosclerotic plaques, thrombi, and other pathological changes. The examination results are provided as a written radiology report together with the image set. These results provide important information for the treating physician (e.g., a vascular surgeon or cardiologist), helping to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.