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CT Lower Leg Without IV Contrast

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

A CT scan of the lower leg without IV contrast is used to examine the bones and soft tissues, often to evaluate an injury, fracture, infection, or unexplained pain.

Quick summary

["This CT scan provides detailed images of the lower leg without using IV contrast."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36537-9
Short code
CT Lower leg WO contr
Synonyms
CT Lower leg 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?

A lower-leg CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed pictures of the area from the knee to the ankle. This version is performed without iodinated IV contrast, so it focuses mainly on bones and other structures in the leg.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this scan to assess a suspected fracture, significant injury, unexplained pain, swelling, infection, or a mass. It can also help evaluate bone abnormalities and some problems involving the muscles and other soft tissues.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a padded table while the CT scanner rotates around your lower leg. The scan is usually painless and takes only a short time, although you may be asked to remain still or hold your leg in a particular position.

How do I prepare for the test?

Wear comfortable clothing that does not cover the leg with metal, and tell the technologist if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. You can usually continue taking medicines unless your clinician gives you different instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

The scan may identify fractures, bone lesions, infection-related changes, muscle injury, or soft-tissue abnormalities. The findings are interpreted together with your symptoms, physical examination, and other tests. Because this study is performed without contrast, it may not provide the same detail for certain soft-tissue or vascular conditions as a contrast-enhanced scan.

Short name

CT Lower Leg Without Contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this CT scan use contrast?
No. This is a non-contrast CT scan, meaning no iodinated IV contrast is injected before the examination.
Is a lower-leg CT scan painful?
The scan itself is generally painless. You may feel brief pressure or tightness when the scanner passes over the leg, and you must remain still during the pictures.
How soon will the results be available?
A radiologist usually prepares a report shortly after the scan. Your ordering clinician will review the results and explain them with you, though timing can vary by facility and urgency.
  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