CT Head and CT Angiography of Head and Neck Vessels with Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan of the head plus a contrast-enhanced CT angiogram that images blood vessels in the head and neck.
["This scan uses CT imaging and injected contrast to evaluate the head, brain, and major head and neck blood vessels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88327-2
- Short code
- CT Head + CTA Head+Neck ves W cont IV
- Synonyms
- CT Head + CTA Head+Neck ves W cont 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-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?
This is a combined CT examination of the head and CT angiography, or CTA, of the blood vessels in the head and neck. Intravenous contrast is injected to make these vessels easier to see on the images.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered to investigate symptoms such as severe headache, dizziness, weakness, vision changes, neck swelling, or signs of a stroke. It can also be used to evaluate trauma, bleeding, aneurysms, vessel narrowing or blockage, tumors, and other structural abnormalities.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a CT table while the scanner takes pictures from different angles. Intravenous contrast is usually given through a vein in your arm, and the scan is performed quickly. The radiologist reviews the images and sends a report to your healthcare professional.
How do I prepare for the test?
Tell your healthcare professional about any kidney disease, prior contrast reactions, pregnancy possibility, allergies, or medications you take. Follow the facility's instructions, which may include avoiding food or drink before the scan; advice can differ based on your reason for testing and local imaging protocol.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
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 use radiation?
Is the CT angiogram the same as a routine head CT?
Will I need someone to drive me home?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy