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CT-Guided Chest Drain Catheter Placement with Intravenous Contrast

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

A CT-guided procedure in which a drainage catheter is placed into the chest to remove fluid around the lung, with intravenous contrast used for imaging.

Quick summary

["This procedure uses CT imaging to safely guide placement of a chest drain and remove abnormal fluid around the lung."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35923-2
Short code
CT Guide Chst Drn+cath plc--W contr IV
Synonyms
CT Guide Chst Drn+cath plc--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 an image-guided procedure used to drain fluid that has collected in the pleural space, the area between the lung and chest wall. CT scans and intravenous contrast help the clinician locate the fluid and guide the catheter.

Why might I need this test?

A chest drain may be needed for fluid caused by infection, cancer, heart or kidney disease, trauma, or another condition. Your clinician may recommend it when symptoms or imaging suggest a sizable fluid collection that requires removal.

How is the test performed?

After numbing the skin, an interventional radiologist uses CT images to guide a thin drainage catheter into the fluid collection. The fluid is then drained, and it may be collected and sent for laboratory analysis.

How do I prepare for the test?

Tell the care team about any contrast allergies, prior imaging reactions, kidney disease, bleeding problems, or possible pregnancy. Follow the facility's instructions and ask whether you should take any usual medicines; do not stop medication unless specifically directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CT-guided chest drain placement

Frequently asked questions

Is this procedure the same as a routine CT scan?
No. CT is used to guide placement of a drainage catheter, which may be placed during the same visit.
Will I feel the catheter being placed?
The skin is usually numbed before insertion, so you may feel pressure but should not feel sharp pain. Some patients are also given sedation, depending on the procedure and local practice.
What happens after the chest drain is placed?
The fluid is drained through the catheter and its amount and appearance are recorded. Your care team will monitor you and decide when the drain can be removed or replaced with another treatment.
  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