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CTA Chest

Last Updated: 2026-01-01 Author:

  • 1. Clinical Summary

    Series Phase Coverage
    Non-contrast Non-contrast Lung apices to Costophrenic angles
    CTA Arterial Chest Arterial (bolus tracked) Lung apices to Costophrenic angles
    CT Delayed (optional) Delayed (40 sec delay) Lung apices to Costophrenic angles
    • Thoracic aortic aneurysm (not involving the aortic root)
    • Great vessel evaluation

  • 2. Patient Prep

    • Position: Supine with arms raised
    • NPO Status: NPO 2 hours

  • 3. IV Contrast & Injection

    Parameter Value
    Agent Isovue 370
    Volume 1.2 mL/kg
    Flow Rate 4 mL/s
    Duration 15 - 20s
    Timing Method Bolus Tracking
    ROI Placement Ascending aorta or main PA
    Trigger (HU) 150 HU

    Use full dose if GFR > 30

    If GFR < 30

    Max Contrast = \(2*\left[\frac{\text{Patient Weight}}{75 \text{ kg}} * \text{eGFR}\right]\)

  • 4. Special Notes

    • Choose ROI based on indication - ascending aorta for aortic pathology or main PA for PE
    • Additional Recons: 3D VR of thoracic vasculature
    • 20G IV minimum

    Safety First

    • Renal Function: Verify eGFR > 30
    • Allergy: Check allergy history
    • Assess aorta and great vessels. Measure aneurysm if present. Look for dissection flap
    • Arms fully raised
Series Name Start Location End Location Delay Slice Thickness Notes
Scout/Topogram Lung apices Adrenal glands N/A N/A AP and lateral
CTA Arterial Chest Lung apices Adrenal glands Bolus tracked 0.625 mm Caudocranial direction
Stent Delay (optional) Top of Stent Bottom of Stent 40 sec 0.625 mm Stent coverage
Plane Acquisition FOV Thickness/Increment Kernel IR Strength Notes
Axial Arterial Chest 1.25 mm/1.25 mm Vascular 3 Primary diagnostic series
Axial Arterial Chest 2.5 mm/2.5 mm Lung 3 Lung window for parenchyma
Coronal Arterial Chest 2.5 mm/2.5 mm Vascular 3 MIP coronal great vessels
Sagittal Arterial Chest 2.5 mm/2.5 mm Vascular 3 MIP sagittal aortic arch