CT Angiography of the Aortic Arch With Intravenous Contrast
A CT angiogram uses IV contrast and detailed images to examine the aortic arch and nearby blood vessels for narrowing, aneurysm, dissection, or calcification.
["This imaging test provides a detailed view of the aortic arch to evaluate its structure and nearby blood vessels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36144-4
- Short code
- CTA Ao arch W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Ao arch 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, is an imaging test that uses computed tomography and intravenous contrast to produce detailed pictures of blood vessels. For this test, the focus is the aortic arch, the curved portion of the main artery carrying blood away from the heart.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test to evaluate an aortic aneurysm, unexplained chest or back pain, or symptoms suggesting a blood-vessel problem. It may also be used to monitor an aortic condition or plan treatment for an abnormality.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a CT scanner table while the machine takes many rapid images. Intravenous contrast is usually injected through a vein to highlight the aorta and surrounding vessels, and you may be asked to hold your breath briefly during image capture.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, including any fasting or medication guidance. Tell the care team about kidney problems, prior reactions to imaging contrast, and pregnancy or possible pregnancy, because these factors may affect the use of contrast and the testing plan.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include an aneurysm, narrowing, a dissection, or calcification involving the aortic arch or nearby vessels. The appearance and severity of a finding depend on your symptoms, medical history, and the full imaging study, so the radiologist's report and your clinician's interpretation are important.
Short name
Aortic Arch CT Angiography
Frequently asked questions
Is this test the same as a routine CT scan?
Does the test require an IV line?
Will I be exposed to a substantial amount of radiation?
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