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These catheters are "tunneled" under the skin and placed in one of the veins just above the collarbone. The catheter is long enough to reach the large vein that enters the heart. The purpose of tunneling the catheter under the skin is to help prevent infection. A small cuff is located around the catheter about one inch inside the place where the tube enters yours skin. Skin grows into this cuff and keeps the catheter in place. Tunneled catheters are used when PICC lines are no longer an option. These catheters are for longer term needs to provide access for nutrition and medications.
Procedure preparation
- A nurse from CDI will contact you before to your procedure.
- At this time, it will be important to review any medications you may be taking and to discuss known allergies to foods or medications.
- Females in their childbearing years should let the nurse or technologist know if there is any possibility of pregnancy.
- This is an outpatient facility, which means you will go home the same day your procedure is performed.
- Eating: Do not eat solid food 4 hours before your procedure. You may take sips of water with medication.
- Medication: Most people can continue to take their prescribed medication. If you are a diabetic, ask your doctor about modifying your insulin dose for the day of your procedure.
If you take a blood thinner such as Coumadin, you must tell your doctor so that it can be stopped.
- Arrive one hour before your procedure if you are receiving an I.V. for sedation.
During the procedure – what to expect
- An interventional radiologist will insert your CVAC device.
- In the procedure room, you will lie down on a cushioned, x-ray bed.
- You will receive medication to help you relax, and the area will be numbed (local anesthetic).
- Depending on the type of CVAC used, the device may be placed through your arm, neck, chest, or groin into a large vein in your chest.
- A needle will be inserted into the skin, creating a small tunnel. The CVAC is placed in the tunnel with the tip coming to rest in a large vein near the heart.
- You may feel some pressure and slight discomfort during the procedure, but it is not very painful.
- You will be closely monitored by the radiologist and nurse during the procedure.
After the procedure – what to expect
- The most common complications are infections, blockage of the CVAC and, occasionally, clotting of the blood, which can be resolved with appropriate medical care.
- Once your procedure is complete, we will provide you with information on how to care for your CVAC and address frequently asked questions about using your device.
- Your interventional radiologist will work closely with your referring physician to be sure you receive the best possible care.
What is an interventional radiologist?
Interventional radiologists are physicians who are fellowship-trained to perform minimally invasive, targeted treatments. To ensure accurate placement of your CVAC device, these physicians use image-guided technology, such as fluoroscopy (x-ray) or ultrasound, to watch progress on a T.V. monitor during the procedure.
If you have additional questions about your appointment or our services, check out our Frequently Asked Questions or contact your local CDI center.
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 | Tunneled catheters |
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