Carotid CT Angiography is a modern imaging method that allows detailed and rapid examination of the blood vessels supplying the brain. It is particularly important for early diagnosis in individuals at risk of stroke or suspected neck artery occlusion. The procedure is quicker, less risky, and non-invasive compared to conventional angiography. Magnet Hospital offers reliable carotid angiography services in Ankara with its advanced radiology infrastructure, experienced specialist staff, and social security and private insurance agreements.

What is Carotid CT Angiography?

Carotid CT Angiography is a non-invasive imaging procedure (without the insertion of a catheter) that uses computerized tomography (CT) to image the carotid arteries (carotid arteries) on both sides of the neck using contrast material.
This procedure is performed to assess the structural condition of the vessels that supply blood to the brain and is crucial in determining the risk of stroke.

In Which Diseases Is Carotid CT Angiography Performed?

1. Carotid Artery Stenosis

This is the most common cause.
Carotid artery stenosis is the narrowing of the neck arteries caused by the accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and calcium (plaque formation) on their inner walls.
Purpose:

1. How narrow the vein is,

2. The degree of hardness of the plaques (calcific or soft),

3. It is to determine whether blood flow to the brain is affected.

These narrowings are one of the most important causes of stroke risk.

2. Carotid Artery Occlusion

As the stenosis progresses, the artery can become completely blocked.
CT angiography clearly shows the location and extent of the blockage, and how it affects blood flow to the brain.
It is particularly useful in patients who have experienced a sudden stroke or transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke).

3. Carotid Artery Aneurysm (Ballooning)

It appears as a ballooning of the weakened wall of an area of ​​the carotid artery.
CT angiography is the gold standard for determining the size, location, and risk of rupture of an aneurysm.
Early diagnosis is crucial because this condition can increase the risk of a brain hemorrhage.

4. Dissection (Tearing in the Vessel Wall)

A tear (dissection) in the inner layer of the vessel wall can occur following trauma, sudden neck movement, or hypertension.
CT angiography reveals the line of dissection and whether blood is moving through the vessel wall.
This is particularly common in young patients presenting with complaints such as sudden headache, facial numbness, and vision loss.

5. Brain or Neck Vascular Tumors

In some tumors of vascular origin (e.g., paraganglioma, meningioma, glomus tumors), carotid CT angiography demonstrates the relationship of the tumor to the vessels and their source of nutrition.

6. Preparation Before Surgery or Stent

In patients who are scheduled to undergo carotid artery stenting or surgery (endarterectomy),
the anatomical structure of the vessel and the length of the lesion are evaluated with CT angiography.

For Which Complaints is Carotid CT Angiography Performed?

Carotid artery disease typically manifests as decreased blood flow to the brain.
Carotid CT angiography is recommended in the following situations:

• Dizziness and imbalance

• Sudden slurred speech, numbness in the face or arm (signs of stroke)

• Temporary vision loss (especially in one eye)

• Weakness or numbness on one side of the body

• Hearing a murmur (blockage sound) in the neck vein

• It is performed for screening purposes in individuals at risk who have a family history of stroke.

  
  

How is Carotid CT Angiography Performed?

CT Carotid Angiography is performed by injecting contrast material into the patient's neck. The patient is positioned inside the device and asked to remain still for a few seconds. The device produces three-dimensional images of the blood vessels, allowing clear visualization of plaques, blockages, narrowings, and aneurysms in the artery walls.

Preparation Before Carotid CT Angiography

Before the procedure, the following preparations are generally recommended for the patient:

• You should not eat anything for 6 hours beforehand.

• Contrast material is used with caution in people with poor kidney function.

• Patients with a history of allergies should definitely inform their doctor.

• Medications used (especially blood thinners) may be temporarily stopped upon doctor's recommendation.

How Long Does Carotid Angiography Take?

A carotid CT angiogram takes an average of 10–15 minutes. While the scan itself is relatively short, the hospital stay, including preparation and waiting time, is approximately 30–45 minutes.

Things to Consider After Carotid CT Angiography

Rest is generally recommended after the procedure. The following points should be taken into consideration:

• Drinking plenty of water accelerates the removal of the contrast medium from the body.

• Rarely, dizziness or mild allergic reactions may occur.

• If redness, pain or shortness of breath develops at the injection site, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

Disadvantages of Carotid CT Angiography

• Radiation exposure is present, albeit at low levels.

• Allergy to contrast material may occur, although rare.

• It should be administered with caution in patients with renal failure.

However, it is a much less risky and quicker procedure than classical angiography.

Who is Not Applied to Carotid CT Angiography?

• For those with advanced renal failure

• For pregnant women

• Patients with severe allergies to contrast material

• It is not applied to those with severe heart failure.

Areas of Use for Carotid CT Angiography

Carotid CT Angiography is used in the following situations:

• Cerebrovascular diseases (stroke, TIA, risk of paralysis)

• Suspicion of neck vascular occlusion or stenosis

• Vascular wall abnormalities (aneurysm, dissection)

• Atherosclerosis

• Used for preoperative brain vascular mapping

What is Seen in Carotid Angiography?

With this examination:

• Vascular narrowing and occlusions,

• Plaque formations,

• Aneurysms (bubbles),

• Findings such as vascular wall thickening can be detected in detail.

Does Social Security Pay for Carotid Angiography?

Yes. The Social Security Institution (SGK) covers the cost of carotid CT angiography when indicated by a specialist. However, private hospitals may charge an additional fee. As a center affiliated with the SGK, Magnet Hospital performs this procedure under convenient conditions for patients.

Does Private Insurance Pay for Carotid Angiography?

Most private health insurance policies cover CT angiography procedures. However, because each insurance company has different terms and conditions, it is recommended that you consult your insurance advisor beforehand. Magnet Hospital offers special benefits for private insurance holders.

Current Carotid Angiography Prices

Carotid CT angiography prices vary depending on the hospital's status and insurance status.

• In public hospitals, it is generally free of charge under SSI.

• A difference fee is charged in university hospitals.

• In private hospitals, a difference fee is charged according to the hospital's price policy.

Reporting, contrast material and physician evaluation may be included or excluded from these prices.

Where Can I Get Carotid Angiography Done in Ankara?

Among the centers that offer carotid angiography services in Ankara, the following stand out:

• Magnet Hospital offers safe, rapid imaging services using advanced CT imaging devices and has agreements with the Social Security Institution (SGK) and private insurance companies. It is experienced in cardiovascular and neurological examinations.

• University hospitals – Provide advanced examination opportunities at an academic level.

• City Hospital – Provides state-wide services with its extensive radiology unit.

• Imaging centers

• You can also have carotid CT angiography in private hospitals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is carotid angiography painful?
No, the procedure is painless. There may be a brief feeling of warmth when the contrast medium is administered.

2. When are the results available?
They are usually reported the same day.

3. Can I return to work after the procedure?
Yes, you can return to normal life after a short rest.

4. Is there a difference between a carotid angiogram and a conventional angiogram?
Yes, CT carotid angiograms are non-invasive, meaning no catheters are inserted into the vein. This makes the procedure safer and more comfortable.

5. Who performs carotid CT angiography?
Carotid angiography is performed by radiology technicians accompanied by a radiologist.