CT Angiography, Lower Extremity, Venous — Right, With and Without IV Contrast
A CT scan uses X-rays and intravenous contrast to examine the veins of the right lower leg, often to evaluate suspected blood clots or other venous problems.
["This imaging test can identify or rule out blood clots and other abnormalities in the lower-leg veins."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46307-5
- Short code
- CTA LE ves-R WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CTA LE ves-R WO+W contr IV
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct-angio
- CPT
- 85651
- 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 venous CT angiography is an X-ray-based imaging test that evaluates the veins in the right leg. Images may be taken before and after intravenous contrast is given so the blood vessels can be seen more clearly.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered for signs of a deep vein thrombosis, such as one-sided leg swelling, pain, redness, or tenderness. It can also assess other venous conditions when ultrasound results are inconclusive or symptoms are persistent.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a CT table while an X-ray scanner takes pictures of the leg. IV contrast is administered through a vein to highlight the blood vessels, and a radiologist interprets the images.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is usually not required unless your imaging center gives specific instructions. Tell the care team about any contrast allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy possibility, medications, or recent surgery before the scan.
Reference range
Adult males: 0-15 mm/hr; Females: 0-20 mm/hrN/A
No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal result may show a blood clot, narrowing or blockage of a vein, or other changes related to venous pressure and circulation. A normal result makes a blood clot less likely but does not explain every cause of leg swelling or pain. The findings should be interpreted alongside your symptoms and other examination or laboratory results.
Short name
Lower Extremity Venous CTA
Frequently asked questions
What does “with and without contrast” mean?
Why is IV contrast used?
What should I do if I have leg swelling or pain?
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