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CT Angiography of Head and Neck Vessels, With or Without IV Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A CT scan that uses imaging and sometimes IV contrast to examine blood vessels in the head and neck and nearby structures.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate the head and neck blood vessels for narrowing, blockage, aneurysms, and other abnormalities."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82680-0
Short code
CTA Head+Neck Ves WO+W contr IV
Synonyms
CTA Head+Neck Ves WO+W contr IV
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct-angio
CPT
82553
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?

Head and neck CT angiography, or CTA, is an imaging test used to examine blood vessels supplying the brain and face. It may include images taken before and after IV contrast, depending on the specific scan ordered.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to investigate symptoms such as severe headache, neck pain, dizziness, weakness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking. It can also be used to evaluate suspected blood-vessel disease, trauma, tumors, or abnormalities in nearby tissues.

How is the test performed?

You lie on a CT scanner table while X-ray images are taken from different angles. If contrast is used, it is given through an IV line, and the scan may include both noncontrast and contrast-enhanced images.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center. Tell the care team if you have kidney disease, have had a prior contrast reaction, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or have any allergies. You may be asked about medications and may need to avoid certain medicines before contrast is given.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Head and Neck CT Angiography

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require IV contrast?
It depends on the protocol ordered. Some scans include both noncontrast and contrast-enhanced images, while others are performed without contrast.
Is CT angiography the same as a routine head CT?
No. CT angiography focuses specifically on blood vessels, often using timed contrast-enhanced images to evaluate their condition.
Is the radiation from this test safe?
CT uses ionizing radiation, but the scan is generally brief and is performed when the expected clinical benefit outweighs the radiation exposure. The imaging center follows protocols to reduce the dose when possible.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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