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CT Angiography of Hepatic Vessels, With and Without Intravenous Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A CT angiogram that images vessels supplying the liver, including scans before and after IV contrast, to evaluate narrowing, blockage, or abnormal blood flow.

Quick summary

["This CT scan evaluates blood flow through the liver’s major vessels and may identify narrowing, clots, or other circulation problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87836-3
Short code
CTA Hep ves WO+W contr IV
Synonyms
CTA Hep 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?

This is a CT angiogram of the blood vessels associated with the liver. It usually includes images taken before and after intravenous (IV) contrast is given.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order it to evaluate liver blood flow, unexplained abdominal symptoms, or suspected problems involving the hepatic artery, portal vein, or other nearby vessels.

How is the test performed?

You lie on a CT scanner table while X-ray images are taken. IV contrast may then be injected through a vein, followed by rapid images that show how contrast moves through the liver’s vessels.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your imaging center’s instructions, which may include fasting briefly and avoiding food for several hours before the scan. Tell the care team about any prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, pregnancy possibility, or allergies before receiving contrast.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing, blockage, clot formation, aneurysm, or altered blood flow involving the liver’s vessels. The results may also be affected by differences in how blood flows through the liver, so the radiologist interprets the images together with your symptoms and other tests.

Short name

Hepatic Vessel CT Angiography

Frequently asked questions

Does this test use IV contrast?
Yes. The examination generally includes a scan before contrast and another after IV contrast is injected, allowing the vessels and blood flow to be evaluated more clearly.
Will I feel anything when the contrast is given?
The injection may feel like a brief pressure or warm sensation. Some people experience a metallic taste, nausea, or mild flushing, but serious reactions are uncommon.
What can this test show?
It can show narrowing, blockages, clots, aneurysms, or unusual blood-flow patterns in vessels serving the liver. Your clinician will explain what any abnormalities mean in your situation.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy