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CT Upper Arm with Intravenous Contrast

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

A CT scan of the upper arm using injected iodinated contrast to produce detailed images of bones and soft tissues.

Quick summary

["This scan uses X-rays and intravenous contrast to evaluate the upper arm and may help identify bone, muscle, blood-vessel, or other soft-tissue abnormalities."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36207-9
Short code
CT Upper arm W contr IV
Synonyms
CT Upper arm 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 computed tomography (CT) scan of the upper arm. Intravenous contrast is injected through a vein to help certain tissues, blood vessels, and areas of inflammation appear more clearly on the images.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this scan to evaluate persistent arm pain, swelling, a suspected fracture, infection, inflammation, a mass, or the extent of an injury. It may also be used to assess blood vessels or plan treatment.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a CT table while a scanner uses X-rays to take detailed pictures of your upper arm. If contrast is required, it is usually injected into a vein in your arm; the scan itself is generally painless and takes a relatively short time.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by the imaging center. You may need to avoid food or drinks beforehand, disclose kidney problems or prior contrast reactions, and tell the care team if you are pregnant or could be pregnant. Metallic objects near the scan area may need to be removed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Contrast-enhanced CT of the upper arm

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine X-ray?
No. CT uses multiple X-ray images and computer processing to create more detailed cross-sectional pictures, particularly helpful for assessing complex injuries and soft tissues.
Does the intravenous contrast cause pain or a serious reaction?
The injection may feel like a brief sting or warmth. Serious reactions are uncommon, but tell the care team about any prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, or major allergy before the scan.
Will I be able to drive home after the test?
Most people can leave normally afterward. If you received sedating medication or your clinician advises otherwise, you may need someone else to drive you home.
  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