“It is by far the most well run, professional, and courteous medical facility of its kind in the Hudson Valley.”
Computer Tomography Angiography (CTA)
CTA is less invasive then angiography and provides physicians a three dimensional view of the arterial blood flow throughout the body. This is also the state-of-the-art procedure for the examination of pulmonary embolisms.
CTA requires a small needle to be inserted into the arm or hand so that contrast material may be injected. Imaging is then taken and sent to an
advantaged imaging workstation for processing. This procedure takes only about 15 minutes and arterial blockages can be quickly identified, giving physicians valuable diagnostic information.
How to Prepare for a CAT scan examination.
- You may wear your own clothing if there are no metal clasps or zippers on them.
- You should be prepared to answer questions regarding your medical health issues or previous surgeries. Some conditions like kidney disease may prevent a CT from being taken with contrast material.
- Depending on your procedure, you may be asked to not eat or drink anything for four hours prior to the procedure. This is especially important if a contrast material is to be used for your exam.
What happens during the procedure?
- Depending on what is being examined, the technologist will place you on the CT examination table, usually lying on your back. Because movement can interfere with the quality of the images, straps and pillows are sometimes used to help you maintain the correct position and assist you to remain still.
- An IV (intravenous line) is placed into a small vein in your arm or hand.
- Contrast material is usually automatically injected through the IV once the exam begins.
- During the procedure, the table will move into the starting position and then move through the opening in the machine for the CT examination.
- At the end of the exam, you will be asked to remain on site for fifteen minutes following a contrast injection.
Pregnancy Policy:
All patients of childbearing age (10 - 54) will be required to sign that there is No Chance of Pregnancy prior to an imaging exam being performed (Exception: - Ultrasound). If there is a chance of pregnancy, STAT blood work will be ordered prior to the procedure being performed to establish that there is no chance of pregnancy.
In the event, you are pregnant and the exam is deemed necessary by your physician, you will be shielded and monitored with a radiation badge.