Fluoroscopy-Guided Central Venous Catheter Placement with Intravenous Contrast
An image-guided procedure used to place a central venous catheter, or central line, into a large vein, with contrast given through an IV.
["Fluoroscopy uses real-time X-ray images to help position a central venous catheter accurately."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26310-3
- Short code
- RFA Guided Vein-Bl CVC place--W contr IV
- Synonyms
- RFA Guided Vein-Bl CVC 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 a procedure in which a central venous catheter, also called a central line, is placed into a large vein. Fluoroscopy provides real-time X-ray images to guide the catheter, and intravenous contrast may be used to help show the blood vessels and catheter position.
Why might I need this test?
A central line may be needed for long-term IV medicine, fluids, nutrition, or blood sampling. It may also be used when veins are difficult to access or when certain treatments require a central line.
How is the test performed?
After numbing the insertion area, a clinician uses sterile technique to guide the catheter into a vein, usually in the neck, chest, or groin. Fluoroscopic images confirm the catheter's location, and the procedure report documents the site, imaging findings, and any complications.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the facility's instructions about fasting, medications, and IV access. Tell the care team about iodinated contrast allergies, kidney problems, bleeding disorders, pregnancy, and any medicines you use, including blood thinners.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This is a procedure rather than a standard blood test, so there is usually no laboratory reference range. The report may describe successful catheter placement, the vein used, contrast administration, and whether the tip is in an appropriate position. If the line is misplaced or complications occur, the clinician may reposition or remove it and arrange additional care.
Short name
Fluoroscopy-guided central line placement
Frequently asked questions
Is this a blood test?
Why is contrast used?
What are the main risks?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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