A Comparative Study Computed Tomography Angiography Versus Magnetic Resonance Angiography

Background and objectives: Blood vessel abnormalities are the leading cause of bleeding in the in various regions of body. Early detection of blood vessel abnormalities can improve results of treatment and prevent bleeding recurrence. Two important diagnostic tools, computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) play critical roles in the evaluation of vessels. Therefore, in the present study, we review the application of CTA versus MRA for assessment of vascular malformations.Materials and methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Clinical Trials and other Database for study the articles in CTA and MRA fields. We also performed a review on these articles and collected necessary information.Results: By either technique, the images are elements have been created through a complex flow of computer processing. A CTA scan is an X-radiation study, which utilizes an iodinated intravenous contrast agent to change the radiation absorptive of vessels. Despite the small caliber and continuous motion of the arteries, this technique now allows to make high quality images. A MRA scan is usually done without an intravenous contrast agent. MRA uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to evaluate blood vessels and help identify abnormalities. The image slices have ۳-D properties that determine spatial resolution (CT better than MRI), and contrast sensitivities that allow tissue characterization (MRI better than CT). Both tools may make artifacts that limit information content and need to a high time. MRA does not use radiation and may require an injection of contrast material. The contrast material used for MRA is less likely to cause an allergic reaction than the contrast material used for CT. MRA has the advantage of not using ionizing radiation and iodinated contrast agents and can be appropriate in the nonacute setting.Conclusion: The results showed that CTA and MRA have high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of vascular malformations, both of them are appropriate methods for diagnosis of vasculature diseases but MRA is safer because is used magnetic resonance imaging and can be a reliable alternative to CTA in vascular mapping.