Clinique Pasteur Tunis
CT angiography of the limbs and peripheral vessels
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CT angiography of the limbs and peripheral vessels

Limb CT angiography in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Limb CT angiography in Tunis: leg arteries (pain when walking), assessment before revascularisation, dialysis fistula, with injection.

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What is it?

Limb CT angiography examines the arteries of the legs (or arms), from the abdominal aorta down to the feet, during a rapid injection of iodinated contrast. It is mainly requested for peripheral arterial disease of the legs, that is, narrowing or blockage of the leg arteries, which causes pain when walking, wounds that heal poorly or cold feet. It is used to plan revascularisation (balloon angioplasty or bypass). Depending on the indication, an arteriography of one region (an examination of the arteries with contrast opacification) may also be performed. For dialysis patients, a fistulography can be performed: it examines the arteriovenous fistula in the arm (the connection used for dialysis) when it is not working well.

When is it indicated?

Leg pain when walking

It looks for and locates a narrowing or blockage of the leg arteries.

Assessment before revascularisation

It guides the choice between balloon angioplasty and bypass, and helps plan the procedure.

Foot wound that does not heal

It checks whether blood is reaching the foot properly.

Poorly functioning dialysis fistula

Fistulography looks for a narrowing of the fistula in the arm.

Preparation

1Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be: a CT scan uses X-rays
2If an injection is planned, tell us about any allergy (especially to an iodinated contrast agent), kidney disease, diabetes or myeloma; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested
3Tell us if you take metformin (a diabetes treatment): whether to pause it around the injection is decided by the doctor
4If an injection is planned, do not eat for a few hours beforehand, as instructed when you book; your usual medicines can generally be taken with a little water
5Dialysis patients: tell us which arm has the fistula (no drip or blood pressure cuff on that side) and arrange the examination with your dialysis centre
6Bring your referral, previous imaging (CT scan, MRI, X-rays, ultrasound) and any relevant reports

Procedure

1

A drip is placed in your arm; you lie on your back with your legs supported

2

You lie on a table that slides slowly through a wide, open ring: it is not a closed tunnel

3

The contrast agent is injected quickly: the feeling of warmth is normal and passes within seconds

4

The pass runs from the abdomen down to the feet; you need to keep still and follow the breathing instructions

5

The radiographer can see and hear you at all times from the next room

6

You can then return to your usual activities; after an injection, drink plenty of fluids during the day (unless your doctor advises otherwise) to help clear the contrast agent

Duration

About 15 to 20 minutes in total; longer for an arteriography or a fistulography

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

A CT scan uses X-rays: the dose is set as low as possible while still giving useful images, and the examination is only done when it is justified
Pregnancy: a relative contraindication; a CT scan is only performed if it is essential, after medical advice
Allergic reaction to the iodinated contrast agent (if injected): rare and usually mild (redness, itching); serious reactions are exceptional and the team is trained to manage them
In case of kidney failure, the iodinated injection can strain the kidneys: the doctor avoids or adjusts it
Rarely, the contrast agent can leak under the skin at the drip site: temporary swelling, easily managed

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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