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Catheter (CVC)

A vascular access placed in a large vein in the neck or chest that can be used immediately. Preferred in emergencies or until a fistula matures.

Temporary vascular access Type
Immediate Use
Emergency / interim Indication

A catheter (CVC – central venous catheter) is a long, thin, flexible tube inserted into the body through a large vein. It is generally used to administer medication, fluids or blood products, to take blood samples or for dialysis. Depending on its purpose, it is placed in different areas, most often the neck, chest or groin. Proper placement and care of the CVC reduce the risk of infection and other complications. In long-term treatment or when frequent blood samples are needed, a CVC provides great comfort for patients.

Catheter Use in Dialysis

A central venous catheter (CVC) is used as a temporary or permanent vascular access method for patients who need dialysis treatment. It provides a flexible and safe route for transferring blood to the dialysis machine and returning it to the body.

Catheter (CVC) Placement Sites for Dialysis

Dialysis catheters (CVC) are usually placed in the large veins of the neck, chest or groin. The chest area is generally preferred for long-term use, while the groin is used more often for temporary access.

Regular and careful care of the catheter is essential. The catheter exit site must be kept sterile and observed continuously for possible signs of infection. The catheter may also be flushed with a heparin solution to prevent blockage.

Possible complications of catheters used in dialysis include local infection, blockage, air embolism and displacement of the catheter. These risks can be minimized with correct placement techniques and regular care.

How long can a dialysis catheter be used?

Is this treatment right for you? Our specialist physicians will assess your case and decide on the best method together with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about Catheter (CVC)

If you can’t find the answer you are looking for, you can ask our team directly.

All questions

Answers are for general information only; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Is catheter placement painful?

Catheter placement is usually performed under local anesthesia, so no pain or discomfort is felt during the procedure. Mild discomfort may be felt afterwards, but it is usually slight and temporary.

Can I bathe with a dialysis catheter?

The catheter site must not be exposed to water. It is therefore recommended to cover the catheter site with a waterproof material when showering. It is best to follow the advice of your doctor or nurse.

What are the advantages of a dialysis catheter?

A dialysis catheter provides immediate vascular access, making it suitable for patients who need urgent dialysis. It is also used as a temporary access method for patients waiting for a fistula or graft.

What complications are associated with a dialysis catheter?

The most common complications include infection, blockage, displacement of the catheter and air embolism. These risks are minimized with correct placement and care techniques.

What should be done if the catheter becomes blocked?

A blocked catheter can cause low blood flow rates during dialysis. If a blockage occurs, you should contact your dialysis team immediately. They may use special solutions or techniques to clear the blockage.

How long can a catheter stay in place?

How long a catheter can stay in place depends on its type. Non-tunneled catheters are generally for short-term use, while tunneled catheters can remain longer. The aim is to switch to a permanent vascular access (fistula) whenever possible.

What is the difference between tunneled and non-tunneled catheters?

A non-tunneled catheter is placed directly into the vein and is intended for urgent, short-term use. In a tunneled catheter, the catheter passes through a short tunnel under the skin; this reduces the risk of infection and allows longer-term use.

How is the catheter dressing done?

The dressing and care of the catheter site are carried out by the dialysis team under sterile conditions during sessions. It is recommended that you do not open the dressing at home and that you keep the area dry and clean.

What should I do if I get a fever while I have a catheter?

Fever, chills or shivering may be signs of a catheter infection and must be taken seriously. Contact your team immediately without waiting for your next session, or go to the emergency department.

Can I swim with a catheter?

No. The catheter site must not come into contact with water; swimming in the sea, a pool or a bathtub is not recommended because of the risk of infection.

What should I do if my catheter comes out?

If the catheter comes out partially or completely, press on the exit site with a clean cloth, do not try to push the catheter back in, and go to the emergency department immediately or call 112.

What should I pay attention to in daily life with a catheter?

Avoid tight clothes and sudden movements that could pull on the catheter, and make sure the catheter ends are closed. The catheter should only be used for dialysis; it must not be used to give medication or draw blood for any other purpose.

How is a catheter removed?

When the catheter is no longer needed, it is removed by a physician in a short procedure. Afterwards, pressure is applied to the site for a while and it is covered.

Why isn’t a catheter preferred as a permanent method?

Catheters carry a higher risk of infection and blockage than a fistula. For this reason, a catheter mostly serves as a bridge until the fistula matures; in the long term, a fistula is preferred.

What should I do if there is pain or discharge at the catheter site?

Redness, discharge, a bad smell or increasing pain at the catheter exit site may be signs of infection. Inform your team without opening the dressing yourself.

Catheter (CVC)

Catheter Use in Dialysis

Catheter (CVC) Placement Sites for Dialysis

How long can a dialysis catheter be used?

Questions about Catheter (CVC)

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