Computed Tomography Angiography of the Aortic Valve with Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan uses intravenous contrast to examine the aortic valve's structure, surrounding blood vessels, and any calcium deposits or narrowing.
["This scan provides detailed images of the aortic valve and nearby blood vessels to help evaluate valve disease and anatomy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87837-1
- Short code
- CTA Aortic valve W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Aortic valve 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?
Computed tomography angiography, or CTA, creates detailed cross-sectional images using intravenous iodinated contrast. This test focuses on the aortic valve, which controls blood flow from the left side of the heart into the aorta.
Why might I need this test?
A CTA of the aortic valve may be used to assess valve narrowing, calcium buildup, congenital anatomy, complications of valve disease, or the structure around a valve replacement. Your clinician will decide whether this imaging is appropriate based on your symptoms and other tests.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a CT table while a scanner takes images. Intravenous contrast is usually injected through a vein in your arm, and the scan is performed quickly. The images are then reviewed by a radiologist and sent to your ordering clinician.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your imaging center's instructions about eating, drinking, medications, and prior contrast exposure. Tell the care team about kidney disease, thyroid disease, allergies to contrast, pregnancy, or possible pregnancy before the scan.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include calcium deposits, narrowing or irregularity of the valve, problems with nearby blood vessels, or complications affecting surrounding heart structures. Results should be interpreted alongside symptoms, physical examination, echocardiography, and other cardiac tests because a CT image does not by itself determine how well the valve functions.
Short name
CTA of the aortic valve with IV contrast
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine CT scan?
Does the test involve radiation?
Can I have this test if I am allergic to contrast?
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