Central Venous Catheters

Central venous catheters are special tubes inserted into a large vein. These may be placed in the veins of the neck, chest, or groin (Port-a-Cath or Hickman line), or through the veins in the arm (PICC line – peripherally inserted central catheter).

Central venous catheters are used to:

• Administer medication or fluids that cannot be taken by mouth, or which might damage a smaller vein in the hand or arm.
• Obtain blood samples, especially when these are required regularly, such as for cancer patients or those with ongoing infection.

The type of catheter most suitable for you will depend on your medical condition and how long the line will be needed.