CT Angiography, Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery — With Intravenous Contrast
A CT angiography study uses x-rays and intravenous contrast to evaluate blood flow through the deep inferior epigastric artery in the lower abdominal wall.
["This imaging test shows whether blood can flow normally through the deep inferior epigastric artery."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87858-7
- Short code
- CTA Deep inf epigastric a W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA Deep inf epigastric a W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct-angio
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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 x-ray–based imaging test that uses injected contrast to show blood vessels. This test focuses on the deep inferior epigastric artery, which runs along the lower abdominal wall and may be assessed for blood-flow problems or to plan a procedure.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test to evaluate the artery after trauma, surgery, or symptoms suggesting impaired blood flow. It may also be used to assess the artery before reconstructive surgery, tissue-flap planning, or treatment of an abdominal-wall condition.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a CT scanner while x-ray images are taken. Intravenous contrast is given through a vein to highlight the artery, and the scanner creates detailed images of the vessel and surrounding tissues.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions, which may include avoiding food or drinks for a short period. Tell the care team about any prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, pregnancy possibility, or other relevant medical conditions before receiving contrast.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing, blockage, an aneurysm, or altered blood flow in the deep inferior epigastric artery. The images may also identify collateral blood vessels or provide information for surgical planning. Results should be interpreted by your clinician together with your symptoms, medical history, and other imaging.
Short name
CTA, Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use intravenous contrast?
Is CTA different from a routine abdominal CT?
What should I do if I have previously reacted 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy