Image-Guided Left Central Venous Catheter Placement with Intravenous Contrast
A radiologic procedure used to place a central venous catheter through a vein on the left side, with intravenous contrast and imaging guidance.
["This procedure places a left-sided central venous catheter while using imaging and contrast to help confirm safe positioning."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26311-1
- Short code
- RFA Guided Vein-L CVC place--W contr IV
- Synonyms
- RFA Guided Vein-L 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 an image-guided procedure to place a central venous catheter, commonly called a central line, into a large vein on the left side. Intravenous contrast may be used with imaging to help guide placement and check the catheter position.
Why might I need this test?
A left central line may be needed for long-term intravenous medication or fluid treatment, blood sampling, or access when other venous routes are unsuitable. The procedure may also be used to replace or revise an existing central line.
How is the test performed?
After numbing the access area, the clinician locates a suitable vein and advances the catheter using ultrasound, fluoroscopy, or another imaging method. Contrast is administered through a vein, and the catheter is checked for correct placement before the procedure is completed.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging or procedural team, including any fasting or medication guidance. Tell the clinician about kidney disease, previous contrast reactions, iodine or shellfish allergy, pregnancy, bleeding problems, and blood thinners, because these factors may affect the procedure or contrast use.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The imaging report can confirm that the catheter follows the expected vein and that its tip is in an appropriate location. Findings may also identify catheter malposition, vessel injury, bleeding, contrast leakage, or venous thrombosis, which may require repositioning, removal, or additional treatment.
Short name
Left central line placement
Frequently asked questions
Is this a blood test?
Why is contrast used?
What happens after the catheter is placed?
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