RFA-Guided Venous Central Venous Catheter Repositioning with Intravenous Contrast
An imaging-guided procedure to reposition a central venous catheter and confirm its placement using intravenous contrast.
["This procedure corrects central venous catheter placement and checks the catheter tip with contrast imaging."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26296-4
- Short code
- RFA Guided Vein-L CVC repos--W contr IV
- Synonyms
- RFA Guided Vein-L CVC repos--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 RFA-guided procedure used to reposition a central venous catheter, or CVC, when it is not in the intended vein or its tip is not in the proper position. Intravenous contrast is used to help show the blood vessels and confirm the catheter's location.
Why might I need this test?
A CVC may need repositioning if imaging shows that it is too deep, angled unexpectedly, or located in a vein other than the intended one. Correct placement helps treatments and fluids reach the central circulation and may prevent problems such as vessel injury or impaired infusion.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional uses RFA guidance to view and guide the catheter into the intended position. Intravenous contrast may be given through a vein, followed by imaging to check the catheter and contrast flow. The procedure is generally performed with local anesthesia and monitoring.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the care team's instructions about medications, eating, and drinking. Tell the team about prior contrast reactions, iodine allergy, kidney disease, pregnancy, or any bleeding problems. Access to the catheter and treatment information may also be needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The procedure is generally performed when a CVC is malpositioned, which can make treatment delivery ineffective or less safe. Imaging during repositioning helps confirm that the catheter tip is in the appropriate central vein. The final placement and any follow-up care depend on the imaging findings and the clinical circumstances.
Short name
Central venous catheter repositioning
Frequently asked questions
Is this a blood test?
Why is contrast given intravenously?
Will I need to stay in the hospital afterward?
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