Imaging of Circulatory Disturbances Flashcards
what imaging techniques could you use to look at anatomical abnormalities?
> plain films
ultrasound
CT/MRI
contrast angiography
what imaging techniques could you use to look for functional abnormalities?
> radio-nucleotide imaging
MRI functional imaging
ultrasound
pressure measurement
describe why iodinated contrasts are good to use
> differential X-ray attenuation > inert > stable in selected body compartments > painless > easy to use > cheap
what are the problems with iodinated contrasts?
> major reactions > renal dysfunction > disturbance of thyroid metabolism > disturbance of clotting > seizures > pulmonary oedema
what side effects can be caused by parenteral iodinated contrast?
> metallic taste
feeling of warmth
arterial injections can cause micturition and discomfort
what can iodinated contrasts cross react with tipping the patient into renal failure?
metformin
describe how a catheter angiography is carried out
a vessel is punctured and catheterised. the contrast is then injected in using a pump injector. a rapid series of images are acquired.
when is angioplasty used?
> stenosis
> occlusion
what problems can occur from angioplasty?
> occlusion > dissection > embolization > rupture > infection
what are the pros of ultrasound?
> no radiation
> non-invasive
what are the pros of CT angiogram?
> gives further info about structures
> sensitive
what are the cons of CT angiogram?
> IV injection
radiation dose
high contrast dose
expensive
what are the benefits of MRI?
> sensitive
specific
no radiation
no nephrotoxic contrast
what are the cons of MRI?
> expensive
state of the art machinery needed
high contrast cost
