Question: Oklahoma Subscriber Answer: Here's why: The renal arteries branch off of the abdominal aorta below where the superior mesenteric branches off and above the gonadal arteries. A renal scan typically covers the area between the supraceliac aorta and the iliac bifurcation. This anatomical placement puts a renal scan in the abdomen (74175). Tip: Physicians may order a renal CTA to look for renal artery stenosis. If the CTA confirms this diagnosis, report 440.1 (Atherosclerosis; of renal artery).