A big vein located above the heart is inserted with a thin, flexible tube called a central venous catheter (CVC). Through a vein located in the arm, chest, or in neck, it can be implanted. It is also known as a central line or central venous line. Some catheters feature two or three tubes (called double or triple lumen catheters). This enables us to undergo multiple treatments simultaneously. A catheter can possibly be left in place as it is for weeks, months, or even years, depending on the type. The Central Venous Catheter/CVC Market was worth USD 1.12 billion in 2020. By 2030, it is expected to grow by a CAGR of 5.48 per cent to reach USD 1.93 billion.
The purpose of using a central venous catheter
There could be one or more reasons why we put a CVC.
- Giving chemotherapeutic medications and other medications
- Giving intravenous (IV) fluids and parenteral nutrition
- Giving blood and platelet transfusions are all possible uses for a CVC.
- Collection of blood samples
We require fewer injections and needle sticks when using a CVC. A CVC can also:
- Stop the burning sensation occasionally experienced when receiving medications via other IV methods,
- Minimise soreness from IV therapy;
- Stop the swelling and scarring that may develop in a vein after numerous needle sticks.
- Make patients who frequently require IV therapy and blood samples more at ease and less anxious.
Different CVCs
A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), a subcutaneous (implanted) port, and a tunnelled central venous catheter are the three most popular forms of CVC.
Depending on the circumstance and the potential length of the CVC’s use, the doctor will advise us on the sort of CVC we should have. Either in the operating room under general anaesthesia or in a special x-ray department with local freezing and light sedation, a CVC can be placed (we will fall asleep).
a.) Central venous catheter with a tunnel
A tunnelled CVC is a tube that enters a sizable vein around the clavicle, travels through the vein, and sits above the right chamber (atrium) of the heart. The catheter’s other end remains outside the body.
Sometimes, tunnelled CVCs are referred to by their brand name. There are 3 primary varieties of tunnelled CVC:
b.) CVC implanted peripherally (PICC)
A tube called a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC or PICC line) is implanted into a sizable vein at the inner elbow. To place it above the right atrium of the heart, it is inserted through the vein. The catheter’s other end remains outside the body.
c.) The subcutaneous port
A subcutaneous port has a tiny, circular chamber (portal) constructed of titanium or plastic, a self-sealing cap that is typically silicone, and a flexible tube. On the left or right side of the chest, the port is positioned fully under the skin. The catheter passes through the portal and into a sizable vein close to the collarbone before passing over the right atrium of the heart. It is also known as a Port-a-Cath or an implanted venous port.
CONCLUSION
Care must be taken with central venous catheters. They can require a routine cleaning or fresh sterile dressings. When not in use, CVCs must be flushed often with a specific sterile solution to prevent them from becoming blocked. Before we go home, our medical team will inform us and instruct us on how to take care of a CVC.
