Pulmonary CT angiography is an imaging exam that allows a highly detailed assessment of the pulmonary arteries (the vessels that carry blood from the heart to the lungs). It is a fast exam and particularly useful when pulmonary embolism (pulmonary thromboembolism) is suspected.
What is Pulmonary CT Angiography and what is it for?
Pulmonary 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:
- Detect or rule out pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the pulmonary arteries);
- Assess pulmonary arterial circulation and vascular changes, according to the clinical indication.
What is the price of Pulmonary CT Angiography?
At NRD, the private price of Pulmonary CT angiography is €270.
However, you may have Pulmonary CT angiography through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: when Pulmonary 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 Pulmonary CT angiography, the protocol price is €175.
How is it performed?
Pulmonary 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 circulation. The exam takes, on average, 10 to 20 minutes.
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?
Pulmonary CT angiography can help identify:
- Pulmonary embolism (clots/emboli in the pulmonary arteries);
- Changes in the calibre and course of the pulmonary vessels (obstructions, narrowings), depending on the clinical context;
- Relevant findings for planning/follow-up, according to the medical indication.
In which cases is it indicated?
Pulmonary CT angiography is often requested when there is clinical suspicion of pulmonary embolism, for example in situations such as:
- Sudden shortness of breath or unexplained worsening;
- Chest pain (especially when breathing), cough or coughing up blood;
- Tachycardia, reduced oxygen saturation and/or risk factors for thrombosis, according to medical assessment.
Pulmonary CT Angiography with Contrast
Pulmonary CT angiography is, as a rule, performed with intravenous iodinated contrast. For the exam, a 4-hour fast is usually 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 Pulmonary 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?
Pulmonary 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)