Port/PICC Checks

A fluoroscopy exam can be used to confirm the correct placement of devices that provide central access to large veins in the chest or assess for nonfunctioning ports or PICCs. Iodinated Contrast may or may not be used to evaluate patency of the port or PICC. These devices include a port implant or peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). A PICC is a long, narrow tube, inserted with the guidance of ultrasound into a peripheral vein, usually on the upper arm, and threaded deep into the larger veins in the chest near the heart.

Ports or PICC lines are used in patients who are receiving prolonged IV antibiotics treatment, chemotherapy or other long-term treatments that require central access to the blood stream.