CT Angiography of the Abdomen, Pelvis, and Liver Blood Vessels — With Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan with IV contrast that images blood vessels in the abdomen, pelvis, and liver to evaluate narrowing, blockage, bleeding, or aneurysms.
["This scan uses contrast-enhanced CT imaging to assess abdominal and pelvic blood vessels, including vessels supplying the liver."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87280-4
- Short code
- CTA Abd vv+Pelvis vv+LE vv-Bl W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Abd vv+Pelvis vv+LE vv-Bl 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 X-ray images and intravenous contrast to show the arteries and other blood vessels in the abdomen and pelvis, including vessels supplying the liver. It provides detailed pictures of vessel anatomy and blood flow.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to investigate suspected aneurysm, narrowing or blockage of a blood vessel, abnormal bleeding, blood clots, or symptoms such as sudden abdominal or pelvic pain. It may also be used to plan procedures or monitor conditions affecting major vessels.
How is the test performed?
An IV line is placed in your arm and iodinated contrast is injected, usually followed by a CT scan while you lie on a padded table. The scan is painless and typically takes a short time, although you may be asked to hold your breath briefly.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your imaging center's instructions, which may include avoiding food or drinks for several hours beforehand. Tell the care team if you have kidney disease, previously reacted to iodinated contrast, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or have other major medical conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowed or blocked vessels, an aneurysm, abnormal blood flow, bleeding, or a vessel-related mass. The results are interpreted together with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests by your radiologist and ordering clinician.
Short name
Abdominal and Pelvic CT Angiography
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use radiation?
Will I feel the contrast injection?
How long will the test take?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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