Computed Tomography Angiography of the Upper Extremities

Abstract

Upper extremity computed tomography angiography is a powerful tool in the evaluation of acute and nonacute arterial pathology. Technical principles including patient positioning, choice of contrast injection site and rate of administration, and physiologic considerations must be optimized to achieve a high-quality angiographic study. The use of computed tomography angiography in the setting of trauma has been recognized. However, it's less well-known and varied clinical applications in the subacute setting are also important. Volume-rendered, maximum intensity projection, and multiplanar reformat images are indispensable for evaluating the data set.

Keywords: Arterial anatomy; Arteriovenous fistula; CTA; Dissection; Penetrating trauma; Upper extremity; Vascular malformation; Vasculitis.