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CT-Guided Retroperitoneal Drain Catheter Placement with Intravenous Contrast

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

A CT-guided procedure used to place a drainage catheter into a fluid collection in the retroperitoneal area, often with IV contrast for imaging.

Quick summary

["This procedure drains an abnormal fluid collection in the abdomen using CT guidance and may provide fluid for laboratory testing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
90314-6
Short code
CT Guided Retroper Drain+cath--W cont IV
Synonyms
CT Guided Retroper Drain+cath--W cont 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 rather than a standard blood test. A radiologist uses CT scans to locate an abnormal fluid collection behind the abdominal lining and place a drainage catheter into it.

Why might I need this test?

A retroperitoneal drain may be needed when fluid has collected because of infection, inflammation, bleeding, a leak, or another condition. The drain can relieve pressure and allow the collected fluid to be examined in the laboratory.

How is the test performed?

You may receive intravenous contrast to improve the CT images. After numbing the skin, the clinician inserts the catheter using CT guidance. Some fluid is usually drained, and it may be sent for laboratory analysis.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your care team's instructions, including fasting or medication changes if they are specifically provided. Tell the team about contrast allergies, kidney disease, pregnancy or possible pregnancy, and blood thinners before the procedure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

The procedure can show whether a drainable fluid collection is present and confirm the catheter's position. Fluid analysis may identify infection, blood, inflammation, or fluid composition related to another abdominal condition. The findings are interpreted together with symptoms, examination, and other imaging.

Short name

CT-guided retroperitoneal drain placement

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine CT scan?
No. It is a CT-guided drainage procedure in which a catheter is placed into a fluid collection. Some fluid may be removed and tested.
Why is intravenous contrast used?
Contrast can help outline abdominal structures and fluid collections on CT images. The team will assess whether contrast is appropriate based on your medical history.
What happens after the drain is placed?
The catheter may remain in place to drain fluid and is often connected to a collection system. Your care team will monitor drainage and arrange follow-up imaging or catheter care as needed.
  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