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Image-Guided Port Venous Catheter Placement, Right Femoral Approach, With Intravenous Contrast

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

A guided procedure places a long-term central venous port, using a right femoral approach and intravenous contrast to help confirm positioning.

Quick summary

["This imaging-guided procedure provides long-term access for medications, fluids, or blood sampling."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41801-2
Short code
RFA Guided Port v Cath place--W contr IV
Synonyms
RFA Guided Port v Cath place--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
rf-angio
CPT
86430
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 imaging-guided procedure rather than a blood test. A port venous catheter is placed through a vein, using a right femoral approach, and intravenous contrast may be given to help check the catheter's position.

Why might I need this test?

A central venous port may be recommended when repeated IV access is needed for treatments such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, or nutritional support. It can also be used for reliable blood sampling when other access routes are unsuitable.

How is the test performed?

After numbing the access site, the clinician uses imaging guidance to insert the catheter into a central vein and position the port beneath the skin. Contrast may be administered through the catheter, and the final position is checked before the procedure is completed.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the facility's instructions about medications, allergies, and fasting. Tell the care team if you have kidney disease, a contrast allergy, bleeding problems, or take blood thinners, because these factors may affect the procedure or contrast use.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Successful placement allows long-term access to a central vein. The imaging and contrast help identify problems such as catheter malposition or blockage, while monitoring also reduces the risk of major complications. Later signs of trouble may include redness, drainage, pain, swelling, or fever at the port site.

Short name

Port catheter placement with IV contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this procedure replace a standard IV?
It can provide more durable access for repeated or continuous treatments. The port is usually accessed only when needed with a special needle.
Why is contrast used?
Intravenous contrast helps the clinician see the vessels and confirm that the catheter is positioned correctly. The care team will assess whether contrast is safe for you.
What should I watch for after placement?
Report increasing redness, swelling, drainage, severe pain, unexplained fever, or shortness of breath promptly. These may suggest infection, bleeding, or a catheter-related complication.
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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