CT Angiography of Bilateral Lower Extremities — With or Without Intravenous Contrast
A CT imaging test that evaluates blood vessels in both legs, sometimes using IV contrast, to look for narrowing, clots, or other vascular problems.
["This scan creates detailed images of blood vessels in both legs to help identify narrowing, clots, aneurysms, or other abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82708-9
- Short code
- CTA LE ves-Bl WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA LE ves-Bl 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?
Lower-extremity CT angiography is an imaging test that uses computed tomography to examine blood vessels in both legs. Intravenous contrast may be used to make the vessels easier to see.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered for symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, numbness, cool skin, or a weakened pulse. It can also help evaluate known vascular disease or plan treatment for a condition affecting the leg arteries or veins.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a CT table while the scanner takes images around your legs. If contrast is used, it is given through a vein in your arm, and the scan is completed quickly; without contrast, the procedure is generally less involved.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the facility's instructions about eating, drinking, and medications. Tell the imaging team about kidney disease, pregnancy, iodine contrast allergy, or any prior serious reaction to contrast, and remove metal objects before the scan.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of a blood vessel, a blood clot, an aneurysm, vessel-wall injury, or calcium buildup. The significance depends on the location, severity, symptoms, and whether the arteries or veins are affected. A radiologist will interpret the images in the context of the examination and your medical history.
Short name
Lower-extremity CT angiography
Frequently asked questions
Does this test always use IV contrast?
What problems can the scan find?
Are there risks from the contrast dye?
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