Image-Guided Biliary/Pancreatic Duct Catheter Placement with Retrograde Contrast
An image-guided procedure places a catheter in a bile or pancreatic duct and uses contrast to evaluate the duct system and confirm catheter position.
["This procedure uses imaging and contrast to evaluate or drain the bile or pancreatic ducts and guide catheter placement."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30892-4
- Short code
- RF Guided BD+PD Cath place W contr Retro
- Synonyms
- RF Guided BD+PD Cath place W contr Retro
- 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?
This is an image-guided procedure in which a catheter is placed in a bile duct or pancreatic duct. Contrast material is introduced through the catheter in a backward, or retrograde, direction to outline the duct system and check the catheter's position.
Why might I need this test?
The procedure may be performed to investigate blocked or narrowed bile or pancreatic ducts, assess a leak, or allow drainage of fluid from the affected area. It may also be used to guide treatment of stones, strictures, or other duct abnormalities.
How is the test performed?
A trained specialist uses real-time imaging to guide the catheter into the selected duct. Contrast is then introduced through the catheter so the duct can be seen on images. The catheter may be left in place for drainage, depending on the reason for the procedure.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the care team's instructions about fasting and medications. Tell the team about any prior contrast reaction, kidney disease, pregnancy, bleeding disorders, or use of blood thinners before the procedure. Sedation may be used, so arrange transportation home if instructed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Images from the procedure can show narrowing, blockage, stones, leaks, or other abnormalities of the bile or pancreatic ducts. A catheter that drains poorly or contrast that does not move through the duct normally may indicate an obstruction or a need for catheter repositioning. The findings should be interpreted together with symptoms, prior tests, and the procedure report.
Short name
Biliary/Pancreatic Duct Catheter Placement
Frequently asked questions
What does retrograde contrast mean?
Is the contrast the same as a contrast used in a CT scan?
Will the catheter remain 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