Usefulness of Computed Tomographic Angiography(CTA) in the Evaluation of Cerebral Aneurysms

ABSTRACT

In this study we have demonstrated the usefulness of the 3D-computed tomography in the evaluation of cerebral aneurysms as well as presenting the technical considerations and problems in its practical use. Between September 1994 and February 1995, we carried out computed tomographic angiography(CTA) in 29 patients using helical CT(General Electric HiSpeed Advantage unit). There were 15 females and 14 males, aged between 28 and 71 years. The CT angiography was performed for the following five reasons: 1) Further evaluation of a failed conventional cerebral angiography(three cases). 2) impermissible condition of conventional cerebral angiography(six cases). 3) suspicion of aneurysm or subarachnoid hemorrhage on conventional CT scan(eleven cases). 4) Further evaluation of proven subarachnoid hemorrhage with no or suspicious cerebral angiographic finding(seven cases). 5) Follow-up of residual aneurysm sac(two cases). This early experience of computed tomographic angiography using helical CT was encouraging in aspect to its usefalness in the evaluation of cerebral aneurysms in the arteries around the circle of Willis.