Learn about pulmonary angiography, a method to view blood vessels near your lungs, and the differences between this method and CTA. Pulmonary arterial hypertension can be difficult to diagnose. But the good news is there are many ways to treat it, including with diet and exercise.
Pulmonary Angiography vs. CTA: What’s the Difference?
Both pulmonary angiography and CTA (computed tomography angiography) are imaging tests used to diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the lungs. However, they work differently and have distinct advantages.
Pulmonary angiography involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel in your arm or neck and guiding it to the pulmonary arteries. A contrast agent is then injected to highlight the blood vessels on X-rays or fluoroscopy.
CTA, on the other hand, uses a CT scanner to take pictures of the lungs and blood vessels. The scan involves injecting a contrast agent into a vein in your arm, which helps visualize the blood vessels on the images.
Pulmonary angiography is generally considered more accurate for diagnosing conditions such as pulmonary embolism or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. However, it carries a higher risk of complications and may not be suitable for patients with certain medical conditions.
When to Choose Pulmonary Angiography?
Pulmonary angiography is usually recommended for patients who have symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, and are suspected to have pulmonary embolism or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension.
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