Computed Tomography Angiogram (CT Angiogram)

The risk from having a CT angiogram is small. But some risks include:

• Exposure to radiation. There is a slight chance of developing cancer from some types of CT scans.^{Reference 1} The chance is higher in children, young women, and people who have many radiation tests. If you are concerned about this risk, talk to your doctor about the amount of radiation this test may give you or your child. Make sure that the test is needed.
• An Reference allergic reaction Opens New Window to the dye (contrast material). But this is rare, and most reactions are mild and can be treated with medicine.
• Kidney problems. The dye used during the test can cause kidney damage in people whose kidneys don't work well.

The dye may also cause problems for people who take metformin (such as Glucophage) to control their diabetes. Your doctor will tell you when to stop taking metformin and when to start taking it again after the test so you won't have a problem.

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