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Fluoroscopy-Guided Central Venous Catheter (CVC) Placement with Contrast

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

A procedure in which imaging and contrast are used to place a central venous catheter into a large vein and confirm its position.

Quick summary

["This is an image-guided procedure to place a central venous catheter, rather than a routine blood test."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24625-6
Short code
RFA Guided Vein CVC place--W contr IV
Synonyms
RFA Guided Vein 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 central venous catheter, or CVC, placement procedure. A catheter is guided into a large vein, usually in the neck or chest, so that medications or fluids can be delivered directly into the bloodstream.

Why might I need this test?

A CVC may be needed for prolonged IV therapy, certain medications, fluid replacement, or frequent blood sampling when smaller IV access is not suitable. Fluoroscopy and contrast help the clinician guide the catheter and confirm that it is positioned correctly.

How is the test performed?

After numbing the insertion area, the clinician uses imaging guidance to insert the catheter into a vein. Contrast may be given through the catheter, and X-ray images are taken to check its location and function.

How do I prepare for the test?

Tell the clinician about any previous contrast reactions, kidney disease, allergies, bleeding problems, or blood-thinning medicines. Follow the facility's instructions about medications, eating, drinking, and removing personal items before the procedure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This procedure does not produce a laboratory value that is interpreted as normal or abnormal. Imaging is used to identify proper catheter placement and can reveal problems such as malposition, an unintended blood vessel, or leakage. The clinical team will monitor closely for bleeding, infection, blood clots, and reactions to contrast.

Short name

Fluoroscopy-guided CVC placement

Frequently asked questions

Is this a blood test?
No. It is an imaging-guided catheter-placement procedure used to establish access to a large vein.
Why is contrast used?
Contrast helps the clinician see the blood vessels and confirm that the catheter is positioned correctly. The amount and type of contrast depend on the procedure and individual clinical factors.
What happens after the catheter is placed?
The team will check the catheter's position and function before using it. Your clinician will explain the care instructions and any activities or symptoms to watch for afterward.
  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