Guided Venous Access PICC Line Placement Procedure (Procedure Code)
This test involves a medical procedure to place a Peripheral Inserted Central Catheter (PICC line) under guided imaging, likely ultrasound or fluoroscopy, to ensure accurate placement in your vein.
["A PICC line is a medical device used for long-term intravenous access, often for treatments requiring frequent or prolonged vein access."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26306-1
- Short code
- RFA Guided Vein-R PICC place
- Synonyms
- RFA Guided Vein-R PICC place
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- rf-angio
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 a PICC Line?
A PICC line is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a large vein near your arm, typically in the upper arm or chest area. It extends to a central vein, allowing for repeated access over weeks or months. This procedure helps deliver medications, fluids, or nutrients directly into your bloodstream with precision.
Why Is This Procedure Guided?
Guided placement ensures the PICC line is correctly positioned in a major vein to prevent complications like vein damage, infections, or improper access. Imaging guidance (such as ultrasound or X-ray) helps confirm the correct route and depth during insertion.
What Happens During the Procedure?
You’ll lie down comfortably while a healthcare provider inserts the PICC line under the guidance of imaging tools. A small incision is made, and the catheter is advanced into the vein. A local anesthetic may be used to minimize discomfort. Once placed, the line is secured and connected to a port or bag for fluids.
Preparation and Recovery
Before the procedure, you may receive instructions to fast or avoid certain medications. Afterward, you’ll rest briefly while the site is monitored for any immediate reactions. You can usually resume normal activities soon, though follow-up checks may be needed to ensure proper placement and avoid complications.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
PICC lines are critical for patients needing long-term intravenous therapy, such as chemotherapy, nutrition support, or repeated medication doses. Proper guided placement reduces risks like infections, blood clots, or vein injuries, ensuring safe and effective treatment delivery.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the PICC line stay in place?
What are the common risks or side effects of a PICC line?
Can I shower or bathe with a PICC line in place?
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