Vascular access catheters are often essential when patients require long-term or specialized treatments, such as chemotherapy, dialysis, or intravenous medication. These medical devices allow healthcare professionals to efficiently deliver treatments directly into the bloodstream, minimizing discomfort and the need for repeated needle insertions.
In Waldorf, MD, our expert team at the Metropolitan Vascular Institute is dedicated to providing advanced vascular access catheter solutions with precision, care, and comfort as our top priorities. Whether you need a temporary or permanent catheter, we're here to guide you through the process with expertise and compassion.
Vascular access catheters can be placed for many reasons, such as intravenous antibiotic treatment, frequent blood draws, chemotherapy, dialysis, plasmapheresis, or IV feeding.
Types of Vascular Access Catheters
Tunneled Dialysis Catheters
A hemodialysis catheter is a hollow tube that removes and replaces blood to and from your body. The catheter is tunneled from the internal jugular (IJ), with the tip entering the atrium of the heart. An exit site for the catheter is in the chest wall, under the collarbone. A small cuff on the catheter at the exit site sits under the skin. This cuff helps to keep the catheter in place, as well as, help prevent bacteria from entering the body.
The end of the catheter (outside of the exit site), known as a hub, has two lumens. One lumen carries blood to the dialysis machine, while the other brings blood back into the body once the machine has cleansed it. Each lumen has a clip and an end cap that prevent air from getting into or blood from leaking out of the catheter.
Mediports
A port is a small device that is placed under the skin on your chest or arm. The port connects to a small, soft tube called a catheter, which is placed inside one of the large central veins that take blood to your heart.
Patients can receive a number of medications infused through a mediport, including chemotherapy. They can also be used for blood draws and transfusions, eliminating the need for multiple IV Sticks for patients with frequent blood work and infusions. A port can stay in place for months or even years if needed.
Central Lines
Central lines are placed where the patient needs long-term blood draws and medication injections. This allows medical personnel to administer IV medications and blood draws without multiple needle sticks in their arms. Central lines can be tunneled and non-tunneled, implanted ports, or PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) lines. They can have one, two, or three lumens, depending on why the central line is needed. The tip of the catheter is placed into the atrium of the heart with the exit site, depending on what type of line is inserted. Tunneled and non-tunnel have exit sites at the neck or chest wall area, while a PICC line's exit is typically in the arm. The catheter ends have clips and caps that prevent blood from leaking and air entering the body.
Vascular Access Port Procedure
Inserting your dialysis catheter, mediport, or central line will most likely be done in an outpatient medical center. You'll be able to return home after we've confirmed that your vascular access has been inserted successfully and the effects of your anesthesia or sedation have worn off enough for you to be stable on your feet.
Before your treatment date, arrange to have someone accompany you to your appointment. They will need to drive you home. A seatbelt can compress your incisions where your port has been inserted, causing discomfort. Plan for this by placing a small pillow or towel in the vehicle. This can be placed between your chest or arm and the seatbelt.
Vascular Access Port Recovery
You may not need more than a day or two of relative downtime after your port or catheter is placed. You may return to work when you feel well enough, provided you are not required to push, pull, or lift heavy objects. Likewise, you should avoid strenuous exercise or other physical activities that could tug on, press on, or dislodge your catheter.
You may have some bruising and discomfort in the area where your catheter was inserted. If needed, take over-the-counter pain medication to address minor soreness and tenderness. This should be required only for two to three days. You can expect to be able to feel your catheter beneath your skin. You may see it as a slightly raised area, as well. However, this is hidden beneath clothing, so no one will see it as you do.
Depending on how your doctor has closed your incision area, you may have special instructions for your incision area. Bandages will cover the area to keep germs from reaching the incisions. Some bandages can be removed after a few days. Some, such as Dermabond, are made to come off naturally after seven to 10 days. It's important to avoid getting your bandages wet. Your aftercare instructions may provide tips for protecting the area, such as covering it well with plastic wrap until the bandages are removed. If you have questions about how to care for your incision area after your catheter or port is placed, please reach out for assistance.
Why Choose Metropolitan Vascular Institute
At the Metropolitan Vascular Institute, we combine advanced medical care with a patient-focused approach to ensure the best possible outcomes. Our newly built, state-of-the-art outpatient center in Waldorf, MD, is designed to deliver top-tier treatments in a relaxed and modern environment. Whether you're seeking care for vascular disease, kidney failure, oncology, or men's and women's health conditions, our facility offers a seamless experience with cutting-edge technology and modern comforts to prioritize your comfort and well-being.
What sets us apart is our unique multi-specialty team, including vascular care experts, interventional procedures, and nephrology. This collaborative approach allows us to treat various health concerns and develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. Whether you are a local resident or traveling from overseas, you'll receive exceptional care from a dedicated team that supports you at every step. Visit our Services and Resources pages to learn more about how we can help you achieve better health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a tunneled dialysis catheter stay in?
The tunneled dialysis catheter may be cuffed or uncuffed. The uncuffed catheter is designed for short-term use, usually a month or less. A cuffed tunneled dialysis catheter is intended for long-term use. Your doctor may insert this catheter, expecting you to use it for several months or years. This type of catheter becomes stabilized by tissue that grows onto the cuff of the device. In addition to stabilizing the catheter, the cuff also helps keep germs from entering the area and the bloodstream.
Are there restrictions on activities while I have a vascular access catheter?
Yes, certain activities should be avoided to protect your catheter. These include heavy lifting, contact sports, and submerging the catheter in water (e.g., swimming or bathing). Light activities are generally safe, but follow your healthcare provider's guidelines.
How do I care for my vascular access catheter at home?
Care involves keeping the insertion site clean and dry, changing dressings as instructed, flushing the catheter regularly to prevent clots, and monitoring for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge. Always wash your hands before handling the catheter.
Is the vascular access catheter placement procedure painful?
The procedure is not usually painful as local anesthesia is used to numb the area. You may feel some pressure during placement, but discomfort is minimal. After the procedure, mild soreness at the insertion site is common and usually resolves quickly.
Explore Your Options for Vascular Access Catheters in Waldorf, MD
Interested in learning more about our services? Call (301) 374-8540 to schedule your consultation with our providers today! Serving Waldorf, MD & all nearby areas.
