Imaging in Vascular Surgery

Question 1

What are the different types of imaging in Vascular Surgery?

Answer 1

• Ultrasound
• CT angiogram
• MR angiogram
• Digital subtraction angiography

Question 2

What are the advantages and disadvantages of ultrasound for imaging blood vessels?

Answer 2

ADVANTAGES
1. Safe
- non invasive
- no radiation
- no contrast
2. Cheap
3. Best for imaging
- soft tissues
- dynamic assessment of blood flow
4. Quick

DISADVANTAGE
1. Not available in every hospital
2. Operator dependent
3. Non diagnostic views

Question 3

What are the advantages and disadvantages of CT for imaging blood vessels

Answer 3

ADVANTAGES
1. Widely available, 24/7
2. Quick
3. Provides useful information about
~ precise anatomical detail
~ diagnoses range of vascular pathologies
~ may also show incidental or alternative diagnosis

DISADVANTAGES
1. Secure IV access
2. Acceptable renal function
3. Negative pregnancy test in patient of childbearing age
4. Need to lie still

Question 4

What are the risks associated with administration of contrast?

Answer 4

1. Invasive
2. Contrast
3. Ionising radiation
4. Patient position

Question 5

Why are ultrasounds used in vascular surgery?

Answer 5

• Assess diameter of blood vessels
• Assess atherosclerosis
• Assess dynamic blood flow
• Diagnosis +/- treatment pseudoaneurysms