Computed Tomography Angiography of Chest and Abdominal Vessels — Without and With Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan uses injected contrast to examine blood vessels in the chest and abdomen, sometimes with images taken before and after contrast.
["This imaging test helps evaluate the major blood vessels in the chest and abdomen for narrowing, blockage, enlargement, or bleeding."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86971-9
- Short code
- CTA Chest+Abd ves WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Chest+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, is an imaging test that uses X-rays and intravenous contrast to show the blood vessels in the chest and abdomen. Images may be taken before and after contrast is given.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to investigate symptoms such as chest or abdominal pain, shortness of breath, or a weakened pulse. It can also be used to evaluate known blood-vessel problems, including aneurysms, narrowing, or blood clots.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a table while a CT scanner takes pictures from different angles. Intravenous contrast is given through a vein in your arm, and the scan may include images before and after the contrast.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center, especially if you have previously had a reaction to iodinated contrast. Tell your clinician about kidney disease, pregnancy, allergies, diabetes medicines such as metformin, and any implanted devices; additional instructions or blood tests may be needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of a blood vessel, an aneurysm, an abnormal connection between vessels, active bleeding, or an inflammatory condition affecting a vessel. The significance depends on the specific vessel, symptoms, medical history, and other test results. A radiologist interprets the images, and your ordering clinician explains the findings and recommended next steps.
Short name
Chest and Abdominal CT Angiography
Frequently asked questions
Is CT angiography the same as a regular CT scan?
Does the test use radiation?
Can I have this test if I am allergic to iodine or 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