3-D Imaging of the Cerebral Vasculature

3-D imaging of the cerebral vasculature employs imaging technology to create computerized three dimensional models of the blood vessels. These 3-D models help the radiologist better detect blood clots, aneurysms and other abnormalities in the blood vessels.

Catheter angiography is the traditional method for studying blood vessels in three dimensions; however, two newer non-invasive methods, CT angiography and MR angiography, are now frequently used instead. These newer methods use computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging technologies to evaluate the cerebral blood vessels in completely non-invasive ways. CT angiography uses an intravenous contrast agent to enhance the visibility of the blood vessels. MR angiography occasionally uses intravenous contrast agent.

CT angiography and MR angiography are particularly useful in imaging the blood vessels of the brain. When a patient comes into the hospital with bleeding in the brain, these tests are often the first performed to identify the source of the problem and plan treatment.

CT angiography uses x-rays to image the blood vessels of the brain. The patient lies in a CT scanner while up to 1000 images are taken from various angles. A computer combines the images to create three dimensional (3-D) models of the blood vessels. A radiologist then analyzes the 3-D models for abnormalities. MRI angiography is similar, but uses radio waves in a strong magnetic field to obtain images rather than x-rays.

This page contains the following information about 3-D imaging of the cerebral vasculature:

Reasons for Having 3-D Imaging of the Cerebral Vasculature

CT angiography and MR angiography are used to identify the cause of brain hemorrhage and to plan appropriate treatment. They may also be used to check for asymptomatic brain aneurysms in at-risk individuals. By identifying aneurysms before they rupture, they can be proactively repaired, thereby preventing a potentially fatal event.

CT angiography and MR angiography can identify arterial stenosis or occlusion. These imaging studies can help direct appropriate treatment.

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Risks Involved in 3-D Imaging of the Cerebral Vasculature

There are no risks associated with MR angiography. Since some MRI scanners are enclosed, claustrophobic patients may be uncomfortable. It is also possible that undetected metal implants can be affected by the magnetic field or that they can interfere with the readability of the images.

With CT angiography, there is a possibility that you can have a reaction to the contrast material used. There is also the risk of x-ray exposure; however, it is well below the level that causes adverse affects.

Conditions to Let Our Doctor Know About

In advance of your exam, let your INVISION radiologist or technologist know if any of the following circumstances apply to you.

CT Angiography

MR Angiography

Insurance Coverage for 3-D Imaging of the Cerebral Vasculature

Voluntary CT angiography or MR angiography may be covered by insurance when ordered by a physician. Check with your insurance carrier to be sure.

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Exam Locations

CT angiography and MR angiography can be performed at the following locations in the Denver, Colorado area:

CT angiography and MR angiography are also performed by INVISION radiologists at the following INVISION partner hospitals:

Consultations for this procedure are done at the INVISION Vascular & Interventional Clinic.

Please note: INVISION is partially owned by Radiology Imaging Associates (RIA); consequently, your radiologist’s lab coat and your bill, if you receive one, may say RIA rather than INVISION.

Scheduling 3-D Imaging of the Cerebral Vasculature

To schedule a consultation, call 720-493-3406.

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Preparing for 3-D Imaging of the Cerebral Vasculature

Following are the preparation guidelines for 3-D imaging of the cerebral vasculature. Please contact us at 720-493-3417 if you have any questions.

What to Expect During Your Exam

After answering any questions you have, a technologist will position you on a table. He or she will start an intravenous (IV) line in your arm. From here, experiences for CT angiography and MR angiography vary slightly.

CT Angiography

The table will be slid into the CT scanner and a test image will be taken. A small amount of contrast material will also be administered to see how long it takes to reach the brain. The IV is then hooked up to an automatic injector and more contrast is given. You may feel a warm sensation when the contrast enters your body, or experience a metallic taste. The scanner will rapidly take all the images and the automatic injector will give more contrast if and when it’s needed.

The technologist will not stay in the room during the scan, but you can speak with him or her throughout the exam by intercom. You may be asked to hold your breath for a very short time. It’s important that you stay very still throughout the exam, which will take less than ten minutes to complete.

The technologist will review the images and take more if necessary.

MR Angiography

If you are claustrophobic, you may be given conscious sedation through the IV to help you relax (additional preparation may be necessary if sedation is planned). The table will be slid into the MR scanner and the scan will begin. When needed, the contrast material will be injected into the IV line. You may feel a warm sensation as it enters your body.

The MR scanner makes loud knocking and tapping noises as it takes images. You may wear headphones and listen to music to help block the noise. The technologist will not stay in the room during the scan, but you can speak with him or her throughout the exam by intercom. It’s important that you stay very still throughout the exam, which will take less than ten minutes to complete.

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Recovering from Your Imaging Exam

You can return to your normal activities immediately after the exam. You should drink extra fluids for a day to more quickly clear the contrast material from your body.

Getting Your Exam Results

Trained and experienced radiologists interpret all exams. If a voluntary exam was ordered by another physician, the specific results of the exam will be reported to that physician. In turn, your physician will pass the results onto you. Our radiologists and technologists will be happy to answer questions about the exam procedure itself; however, you will not receive your results from the technologist who performs your exam.

In emergency cases, the exams results are used immediately to determine the problem and a treatment plan.

Additional Information

The information on this page was taken in part from some of the following web sites. Visit these sites for additional information on CT angiography and MR angiography.

Sources

CT angiography and MR angiography are particularly useful in imaging the blood vessels of the brain. 3-D imaging techniques help the radiologist better detect blood clots, aneurysms and other abnormalities in the blood vessels.