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CT Angiography, Abdomen — With or Without Intravenous Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A CT imaging test examines blood vessels in the abdomen and nearby areas, using intravenous contrast when ordered.

Quick summary

["Abdominal CTA uses CT imaging to help assess abdominal blood vessels, with or without injected contrast."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30805-6
Short code
CTA Abd ves WO+W contr IV
Synonyms
CTA Abd ves WO+W contr IV
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct-angio
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

CT angiography, or CTA, uses CT scans and sometimes intravenous contrast to create detailed images of blood vessels in the abdomen. The order may specify imaging with or without contrast.

Why might I need this test?

Abdominal CTA may be ordered to evaluate narrowed or blocked vessels, aneurysms, abnormal bleeding, blood clots, or other concerns involving the abdominal circulation. Your clinician will explain the specific reason for the study.

How is the test performed?

You lie on a CT scanner while images are taken. If contrast is used, it is injected into a vein, usually in an arm, and the scan may include images before and after the injection.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the imaging center's instructions about fasting and medications. Tell the care team if you have had a serious reaction to contrast, have kidney disease or thyroid disease, or might be pregnant.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, dissection, clot-related changes, or bleeding in the abdominal vessels. The radiologist interprets the images in the context of your symptoms and other tests, and further evaluation may be needed. A normal study generally does not exclude every possible vascular condition.

Short name

Abdominal CTA

Frequently asked questions

What does “with or without contrast” mean?
It means the order allows the imaging center to perform the study either with injected contrast or without it. The technologist follows the protocol selected for your examination.
Why is intravenous contrast used?
Contrast can make blood vessels and surrounding tissues easier to see on CT images. It is used only when appropriate for the study and the patient.
What should I tell the imaging team before my CTA?
Tell them about any prior serious contrast reaction, kidney or thyroid disease, pregnancy concerns, and current medications. The imaging center will confirm whether any special preparation is required.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy