Catheter Patency Assessment with Contrast via Catheter (RF Catheter)
An imaging procedure that checks whether a catheter is open and properly positioned by passing contrast through it.
["This test determines whether contrast can move through the catheter, helping assess its patency and position."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24620-7
- Short code
- RF Catheter Vs patency W contr via cath
- Synonyms
- RF Catheter Vs patency W contr via cath
- 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
- 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?
A catheter patency assessment is an imaging procedure used to evaluate whether a catheter is open and functioning. Contrast material may be injected through the catheter while images are taken to show the path of the contrast.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered when a catheter is not working, blood flow or fluid delivery is affected, or a blockage, leak, or incorrect position is suspected. It can also be used to check access before or during another procedure.
How is the test performed?
A clinician inserts or connects the catheter, injects contrast through it, and observes how the contrast travels. The images help show whether the catheter is patent, obstructed, leaking, or positioned as expected.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by the imaging or procedure team. Tell the team about any prior contrast reaction, kidney problems, allergies, or possible pregnancy, because these may affect the choice of contrast and how the procedure is performed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Contrast moving freely through the catheter generally supports that it is open and positioned appropriately. Failure of contrast to move or an unexpected spread of contrast may indicate obstruction, malposition, or a leak and may require further evaluation or catheter replacement. The healthcare team should interpret the findings together with the reason the test was ordered.
Short name
Catheter patency study
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose a blood clot?
Is the contrast material the same for every catheter study?
What happens if the catheter is not patent?
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