Abdominal CT angiography is an imaging exam that allows a highly detailed assessment of the blood vessels in the abdomen, especially the abdominal aorta and its main branches (for example, the renal and mesenteric arteries). It is a fast exam and particularly useful when it is necessary to study abdominal circulation and identify vascular abnormalities.
What is Abdominal CT Angiography and what is it for?
Abdominal CT angiography is a Computed Tomography (CT) scan with an angiographic protocol, performed with intravenous iodinated contrast to make blood vessels visible on the images.
It is often used to:
- Assess the abdominal aorta and its branches;
- Identify dilatations (aneurysms), narrowings (stenoses), occlusions or other vascular abnormalities;
- Support the planning and follow-up of surgical or endovascular treatments, when indicated.
What is the price of Abdominal CT Angiography?
At NRD, the private price of Abdominal CT angiography is €270.
However, you may have Abdominal CT angiography through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: when Abdominal CT angiography is performed through the SNS, the patient does not pay any amount (you must bring the prescription from the Health Centre, when applicable);
- ADSE: the patient pays the fee of €25;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance providers: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, among others (the amount varies depending on the policy);
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, among others (the amount varies depending on the plan);
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to have the exam at competitive rates. In the case of Abdominal CT angiography, the protocol price is €175.
How is it performed?
Abdominal CT angiography is performed with the patient lying on a table (bed) that slides into the CT scanner. Iodinated contrast is administered intravenously and, afterwards, sequential images are acquired while the contrast travels through the abdominal circulation.
On average, the exam takes 10 to 20 minutes (including preparation and image acquisition).
NRD has a latest-generation Philips 128-slice scanner, which provides sharp images with a low radiation dose, ensuring safety and effectiveness in every exam.
What does it detect?
Abdominal CT angiography can help identify:
- Aneurysms (dilatations) of the abdominal aorta and/or its branches;
- Stenoses (narrowings) and arterial occlusions (blockages);
- Vascular abnormalities that affect abdominal circulation (for example, changes in the renal and mesenteric arteries), depending on the clinical context;
- Relevant findings for planning/follow-up of procedures, according to the medical indication.
In which cases is it indicated?
Abdominal CT angiography may be indicated, for example, in situations such as:
- Suspected or follow-up of an abdominal aortic aneurysm;
- Assessment of arterial disease (narrowings/occlusions) in the abdominal territory;
- Vascular assessment before surgical/endovascular procedures;
- Clarification of symptoms or clinical findings when it is necessary to evaluate abdominal circulation, according to medical decision.
Abdominal CT Angiography with Contrast
Abdominal CT angiography is, as a rule, performed with intravenous iodinated contrast. A 4-hour fast is generally required (confirmed at the time of booking).
The contrast injection may cause a temporary warm sensation.
Although rare, allergic reactions to contrast can occur. To prevent complications, it is essential to inform the team if you have known allergies (to medicines, foods, etc.), asthma, allergic rhinitis, or previous reactions to contrast agents. This type of allergy or other allergic conditions may increase the risk of contrast reactions.
Preparation for Abdominal CT Angiography
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | If the exam will be performed with contrast, you should fast for 4 hours. If the exam is performed without contrast, fasting is not necessary. |
| Arriving early | Generally, you only need to arrive 15 minutes before the exam, except in cases where oral contrast will be used. In this case, you should arrive 1 to 2 hours before the exam (you will be informed at the time of booking). |
| Previous exams | Bring any relevant previous exams. |
| Previous medical history | Be aware of your previous medical history regarding allergies, cardio-respiratory and kidney diseases, and your usual medication. |
| Water | If needed or if you wish, you may drink water. |
NRD will provide you with all instructions at the time of booking.
Instructions during the exam
To ensure the best image quality and that the exam is completed quickly, it is important to:
- Remain still during image acquisition;
- Follow breathing instructions (you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds);
- Remove metal objects that may interfere with the exam (for example, jewellery, glasses, hearing aids and dentures, when applicable).
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the results within up to 7 days after the exam, by email or on paper at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take the CD with the images with you.
Where to have it done?
Abdominal CT angiography can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha)