CT Angiography of Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis Vessels — With or Without IV Contrast
A CT scan uses radiologic contrast to examine blood vessels and organs in the chest, abdomen, and pelvis, with or without IV contrast.
["This scan helps evaluate blood vessels and organs for conditions such as aneurysms, narrowing, blood clots, bleeding, or masses."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 83298-0
- Short code
- CTA Chest+Abd+Pelv ves WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Chest+Abd+Pelv 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 is an imaging test that uses X-rays and an IV contrast material to see the blood vessels in the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Your scan may include images both with and without contrast, depending on the order and what is being evaluated.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered to investigate symptoms involving the chest, abdomen, or pelvis, such as sudden pain, unexplained bleeding, swelling, or reduced blood flow. It can also be used to evaluate blood vessels before a procedure or to monitor a known condition.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner. The technologist may inject iodinated IV contrast, and the scanner will take several sets of images. The examination usually takes a short time, and a radiologist will review the images for your doctor.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, including whether you should avoid food or drink beforehand. Tell the care team about kidney disease, prior reactions to iodinated contrast, pregnancy or possible pregnancy, and any medications or conditions that could affect the examination.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may include narrowing or blockage of a blood vessel, an aneurysm, an abnormal blood clot, bleeding, or a mass. Images obtained without contrast can also reveal findings such as stones, fluid, or tissue calcification. Results should be interpreted by a radiologist in the context of your symptoms, examination, and other tests.
Short name
CT Angiography, Chest/Abdomen/Pelvis
Frequently asked questions
Is CT angiography the same as a routine CT scan?
Will I receive IV contrast?
How long does 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