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CT-Guided Pelvic Drainage Catheter Placement Without Contrast

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

An image-guided procedure to place a drainage catheter into a fluid collection in the pelvis, usually without using IV contrast.

Quick summary

["This procedure uses CT guidance to drain a pelvic fluid collection and may help diagnose or treat an infection, bleeding, or another fluid buildup."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
89695-1
Short code
CT Guided Pelv Drain+cath place--WO cont
Synonyms
CT Guided Pelv Drain+cath place--WO cont
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?

CT-guided pelvic drain catheter placement is a procedure in which a small tube is guided into a fluid collection in the pelvic area. The drain may be used to remove pus, blood, or other fluid and to collect samples for laboratory testing.

Why might I need this test?

A pelvic drain may be recommended for a symptomatic collection caused by infection, inflammation, surgery, injury, or bleeding. Your clinician will determine the need for drainage based on your symptoms, examination, and imaging findings.

How is the test performed?

After numbing the skin, the interventional radiology team uses CT images to guide a needle and catheter into the fluid collection. Fluid is drained through the catheter, which may remain in place temporarily. Because this version of the procedure is performed without contrast, no contrast dye is generally given.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your procedure team's instructions about eating, drinking, and medications. Tell the team if you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners, or have previously had a reaction to anesthesia or contrast. Do not stop medications unless instructed to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CT-guided pelvic drain placement

Frequently asked questions

Is this procedure painful?
You may feel pressure or discomfort during needle and catheter placement, but local anesthetic is usually used to numb the area. Afterward, the drain site may be tender.
Will I need to stay overnight?
This depends on the condition being treated and whether the catheter must remain in place. Many patients can go home the same day, but some require observation or hospitalization.
What happens if the drain is left in place?
The care team will monitor the amount and appearance of drainage and may remove or replace the catheter when it is no longer needed. Follow the provided instructions for caring for the drain and dressing.
  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