CENTRAL LINE / CATHETER (CENTRAL VENOUS ACCESS CATHETER) INSERTION
Why it is necessary:
- In critically ill-patient or in those requiring prolonged intravenous therapies, for temporary dialysis or for more reliable vascular access.
- Mainly used to administer medication, blood products or fluids for large volume resuscitation, obtain blood tests(specifically the “central venous oxygen saturation”), measure central venous pressure etc.
- These catheters are commonly placed in veins in the neck(internal jugular vein), chest(subclavian vein or axillary vein), groin (femoral vein).
How it performed:
- Insertion of needle in central vein (Internal jugular vein, subclavian vein or femoral vein) under USG guidance followed by wire insertion.
- After serial dilatation of track, central line/catheter inserted at cavo-atrial junction.
Precaution to be taken by patient:
- Care for catheter to prevent its accidental removal and proper dressing to minimize risks like haemorrhage and infections.
What are risks:
- Blockage (Mainly due to excessive long term use or improper care of catheter).
- Infection (1-2 %).
