Carotid and Cerebral Artery Angiography with Contrast — Right Femoral Artery Approach
A contrast-based imaging test that examines the carotid and cerebral arteries for narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, or other vascular abnormalities.
["This test uses contrast and X-ray images to evaluate blood flow and the structure of arteries in the neck and brain."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38862-9
- Short code
- RFA Carot a+Cerebral a-L Vs W contr IA
- Synonyms
- RFA Carot a+Cerebral a-L Vs W contr IA
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- rf-angio
- CPT
- 86430
- 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?
Carotid and cerebral artery angiography is an imaging test that uses iodinated contrast and X-rays to examine arteries supplying the brain. The RFA notation indicates that the contrast catheter is generally introduced through the right femoral artery in the groin.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered when symptoms suggest reduced blood flow to the brain, such as a transient ischemic attack or stroke. It may also be used to evaluate a suspected aneurysm, arterial narrowing, dissection, or other abnormality when other imaging has not provided enough information.
How is the test performed?
After local numbing is applied, a small catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin and guided to the arteries being examined. Contrast is then injected while X-ray images are recorded, and the catheter is removed afterward.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions, particularly any fasting or medication guidance. Tell the care team about kidney disease, prior contrast reactions, bleeding disorders, pregnancy, or allergies before the procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate atherosclerotic narrowing, a blockage, an aneurysm, arterial dissection, or another problem affecting blood flow to the brain. The significance depends on the location and severity of the finding and should be interpreted together with symptoms and other imaging studies. The procedure itself can rarely cause bleeding, vessel injury, or a contrast-related reaction.
Short name
Carotid and Cerebral Artery Angiography
Frequently asked questions
Is carotid and cerebral artery angiography the same as a CT or MRI angiogram?
Is the procedure painful?
What should I do if I have previously reacted to contrast?
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