CT angiography (CTA) combines a CT scan with an intravenous contrast injection timed to the flow of blood, producing high-resolution 3D images of the arteries. It is fast enough for emergencies and detailed enough to plan vascular treatment.
Also called: CTA · CT angiogram · CT angiography
What does CTA detect?
CTA is used wherever arterial anatomy or blockage is the clinical question.
- Aneurysms and aortic dissection
- Carotid and coronary artery disease
- Pulmonary embolism
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Vascular trauma and internal bleeding
How does the exam work?
You lie on a motorized table that passes through the ring-shaped scanner while X-ray beams rotate around you from multiple angles. Contrast dye is injected into a vein to enhance the visibility of the vessels, and the computer assembles the data into cross-sectional and 3D images.
CTA is especially valuable in emergency settings because of its speed and its clarity in trauma.
How do I prepare?
Fast 4–6 hours before your exam. Tell us about kidney function, diabetes medications, and any contrast reactions.
Where can I get this exam?
CT Angiography (CTA) is available at eight of our centers — Palm Harbor MRI, Palm Harbor MRI – Wesley Chapel, Highland MRI, Winter Haven MRI, Brandon MRI, Sarasota MRI, Venice MRI and Venice MRI – Port Charlotte. One call reaches every location — we will schedule you at whichever has the soonest opening, usually the same week.
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Medically reviewed by the board-certified radiologists of MRI Associates · Updated 2026-08-25