Experience with three-dimensional computed tomographic angiography in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Introduction: The latest versions of spiral CT scanners have provided the radiologist with unparalleled capabilities for vascular imaging. Computed Tomographic Angiography (CTA) has the potential of revolutionizing vascular imaging and with evolving improvements may replace conventional angiography in the near future. Objective: To report our initial experience with CTA in Nigeria; highlighting its usefulness as a non invasive modality and its clinical applications in diagnosis of vascular abnormalities of various parts of the body. Materials and Methods: We reviewed 62 patients who had CTA between December 2003 and September 2005. . The studies were performed using a spiral technique with GE CT/e single-slice scanner (General Electric Medical Systems) having a gantry rotation period of one second. Details of techniques of data acquisition, methods of 3-D reconstruction and clinical applications are discussed. Results: Vascular abnormalities were demonstrated in 26 (42%) patients including 5 cranial arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), 3 intracranial aneurysms, 1 spinal AVM, 3 aortic aneurysms, 5 carotid artery stenosis, and 2 traumatic peripheral aneurysms. Conclusion: Correlations between CTA and surgical findings were good.. CT angiography has enhanced our practice of vascular radiology in Ibadan as it has done in the west and other parts of the world.