CT Angiography of the Head and Neck Arteries

Computed tomography (CT) angiography of the head and neck arteries is an advanced diagnostic imaging method used to visualize the arteries of the head and neck in detail. This examination provides comprehensive information about the condition of blood vessel walls, their diameter, blood flow, and helps identify potential pathological changes such as atherosclerotic plaques, aneurysms, stenoses, or dissections.

What is CT Angiography of the Head and Neck Arteries?

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

CT angiography of the head and neck arteries is particularly useful for evaluating vascular diseases because it provides high-resolution images that enable accurate assessment of arterial wall integrity and the identification of narrowing, dilatation, or tears in the vessels.

When is CT Angiography of the Head and Neck Arteries Performed?

This examination is most commonly performed when the following conditions affecting the head and neck arteries are suspected or diagnosed:

• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA): to identify vascular abnormalities that may be the cause of a stroke.
• Atherosclerosis: narrowing of the carotid arteries caused by atherosclerotic plaques, increasing the risk of stroke.
• Aneurysms: dilation of a blood vessel wall that may rupture and cause bleeding.
• Stenosis: narrowing of blood vessels that restricts blood flow to the brain.
• Dissections: separation of the layers of a blood vessel wall.
• Headache or dizziness: of unclear origin when a vascular abnormality is suspected.
• Before and after surgery: for surgical planning or evaluation of postoperative outcomes.
• Trauma: assessment of head or neck vascular injuries following trauma.

Procedure at the Clinic

CT angiography of the head and neck arteries is performed in the radiology department.

1. Preparation: the patient is positioned on the CT scanner table. The injection site (usually a vein in the arm) is disinfected.
2. Administration of contrast agent: 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 of the head and neck.
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 is generally well tolerated.

Interpretation of Results

The CT angiography images are analyzed by a radiologist. The specialist evaluates the diameter and condition of the arteries and looks for atherosclerotic plaques, aneurysms, stenoses, dissections, or other pathological changes. The examination results are provided as a written report together with the image set. These findings serve as important information for the treating physician (e.g., a neurologist, neurosurgeon, or cardiologist), helping to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.