Skip to content

CT Angiography of the Lower Extremities with Contrast

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

A CT scan using injected contrast to image arteries in the lower legs and feet, commonly used to evaluate circulation and guide treatment.

Quick summary

["This test uses CT imaging and contrast to evaluate the arteries and blood flow in the lower legs and feet."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36425-7
Short code
CT Ankle WO contr
Synonyms
CT Ankle WO contr
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
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 CT scans and injected contrast to show the arteries supplying the legs and feet. It creates detailed pictures of the blood vessels.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate leg pain, numbness, weakness, reduced pulses, foot wounds, or poor circulation. It can help identify narrowed or blocked arteries and may be used to plan treatment or a procedure.

How is the test performed?

An IV line is placed in your arm and contrast is injected while CT images are taken. You will usually lie on a table that moves through the scanner, and the examination generally takes a relatively short time.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by the imaging facility. Fasting is not always required, but tell the care team if you have had a reaction to contrast, have kidney disease, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or take medicines such as metformin.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lower-extremity CT angiogram

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine CT scan?
No. CT angiography is a specialized CT examination designed to highlight blood vessels, and it usually includes injected contrast.
Is the test painful?
The CT scan itself is generally painless. The contrast injection may cause a brief warm or flushing sensation, and an IV needle can cause mild discomfort.
How soon will I receive the results?
A radiologist or other qualified specialist typically reviews the images and sends a report to your ordering clinician. The timing for discussing the results depends on your care team and the urgency of your symptoms.
  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