CT Scan of the Petrous Part of the Temporal Bone, Without and With Intravenous Contrast
A CT scan of the dense inner-ear region of the temporal bone, performed before and after intravenous contrast.
["This specialized CT scan evaluates the bony structures surrounding the inner ear and may identify fractures, infection, or other abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36835-7
- Short code
- CT Petr part temp bone WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- CT Petr part temp bone WO+W contr IV
- 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?
This is a specialized CT scan of the petrous part of the temporal bone, the dense skull bone that surrounds the inner ear. Images may be taken both before and after intravenous iodinated contrast is given.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered to evaluate hearing loss, dizziness, ringing in the ears, or drainage from the ear. A clinician may also use it to assess trauma, infection, inflammation, a bone lesion, or complications after ear surgery.
How is the test performed?
You lie on a CT table while a scanner creates detailed images of the temporal bone. For the contrast portion, an intravenous line is placed and contrast is injected; the scan is then repeated as the contrast circulates through the blood vessels.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions and tell the staff if you have had a prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, or an allergy to iodinated contrast. Tell staff if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, and do not fast unless specifically instructed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate a fracture, infection, inflammation, erosion of the inner-ear bones, or another structural lesion. The results are interpreted together with symptoms, examination, hearing tests, and other imaging to determine their clinical importance.
Short name
Temporal Bone CT
Frequently asked questions
Does this test involve radiation?
Why are images taken both with and without contrast?
Is the intravenous contrast the same as the contrast used for some other scans?
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