What is a Central Venous Catheter (CVC) Placement?

A central venous catheter (CVC) is a tube that is inserted beneath your skin and into the large veins in the upper chest area.

Why do I need a CVC?

Doctors recommend this type of catheter for people who need frequent IV (intravenous) access, such as those receiving dialysis, chemotherapy, frequent antibiotics, or frequent blood draws.

Where is the CVC inserted?

It is inserted in the Interventional Radiology Department.

Who will perform the CVC insertion?

One of our specially trained Interventional Radiologists.

What can I expect before the CVC insertion?

• You will be seen by one of our doctors and/or nurse clinicians, who will obtain a health history, perform a brief physical exam, explain the procedure, and answer your questions.
• You will have blood drawn and an IV (intravenous) catheter started.
• You will receive IV (intravenous) antibiotics to help prevent infection.
• You will be requested to sign a consent form.

What can I expect during the CVC?

• You will be attached to a monitor so that IV (intrvenous) medications can be given to relax you.
• Your neck and chest area will be cleaned with special soap.
• The doctor will numb the skin over the neck vein with special medicine through a needle.
• A small tube will be inserted beneath the skin into your vein.
• Through this tube, the central catheter is inserted.
• There are different kinds of catheters. Some have ends that sit outside the body and some are underneath the skin completely.
• Your doctor will discuss with you which catheter is appropriate for you and your needs.
• A dressing will be placed over the site and the central venous catheter (CVC) will be secured to the chest area.

   

What can I expect after the CVC is placed?

• You will receive a chest x-ray immediately afterwards to make sure the catheter is positioned properly in your chest.
• You will return to our recovery area until you are able to go home.
• A home health nurse will see you before you leave to set up a time to show you how to care for your catheter at home.

   

What are the risks of having a CVC placed?

• Infection at catheter site.
• Bleeding at catheter site.

What are the benefits of having a CVC?

A central venous catheter provides a simple, painless way to give IV (intravenous) medicines or to draw your blood.

What are the alternatives to central catheter?

Continue to have IV (intravenous) medicines and blood sticks with a needle.