Test·CPT 71275

CTA pulmonary artery study

Order as

CTA chest for PE with IV contrast

CPT

71275

Strengths: Standard of care for moderate to high clinical suspicion of PE; Consider VQ for low clinical suspicion or if IV contrast contraindicated; In pregnancy, CTA generally offers lower radiation dose to the fetus than VQ scan.
Limitations: Exam is tailored to specifically evaluate patency of pulmonary arteries and may not completely assess aorta or mediastinum due to timing of study, but will offer a general survey of them as well as the remainder of the chest.
Contraindications: 1) Allergy to contrast, but we will premedicate patient as necessary; 2) IV contrast will be dose-adjusted dependent upon creatinine clearance.

Patient preparation

NPO 4 hours, but can take meds with small sip of water.

To schedule, call Orange Coast or Saddleback Medical Center — numbers on the contact page.