CT Neck and CT Angiography of Head and Neck Vessels — Intravenous Contrast
Uses CT imaging, with intravenous contrast, to evaluate the neck and blood vessels of the head and neck for problems such as narrowing, blockage, or masses.
["This scan can help identify abnormalities in the neck tissues and major blood vessels supplying the head and neck."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88320-7
- Short code
- CT Neck + CTA Head+Neck ves W cont IV
- Synonyms
- CT Neck + 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 CT scan of the neck combined with CT angiography, a specialized CT technique that produces detailed images of blood vessels. Intravenous contrast may be used to improve the visibility of tissues and vessels.
Why might I need this test?
The test may be ordered to investigate neck swelling, a suspected mass, trauma, infection, or problems affecting the blood vessels that supply the brain and face. It may also be used to plan or monitor treatment.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a CT table while a scanner takes X-ray images from several angles. If contrast is used, it is given through a vein in your arm, and the scan may take longer than a routine CT examination.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center. Tell the care team about any contrast allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy, or prior reaction to contrast, and provide a list of current medicines. You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a short period, depending on the facility's instructions.
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.
Abnormal findings may include narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, inflammation, infection, injury, or a mass in the neck. The radiologist interprets the images in the context of your symptoms and other test results, so the findings do not always indicate serious disease.
Short name
Contrast-Enhanced Neck CT/CTA
Frequently asked questions
Is this test the same as a routine CT scan?
Will I need an IV line?
How long does the examination take?
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