Venous Access

What is a venous access procedure?

This procedure involves inserting a catheter into one of your major veins, with the tip positioned inside a large central vein. This allows you to effectively receive:

• Intravenous (IV) antibiotics
• Chemotherapy or anti-cancer medication
• IV nutrition
• Hemodialysis
• Blood transfusions

This line can also reduce stress on your body if you need to have blood samples drawn repeatedly.

What are the types of venous access?

You’re probably familiar with an IV line from seeing one in a hospital setting, but what about when you need longer-term access or a delivery system for more specialized treatments? The RIA Endovascular team can meet these needs.

Long-term IV access

This is a more secure line that gives your providers easy access for repeated treatments over a longer span of time.

Implanted port

Also called a subcutaneous implantable port, an implanted port is a permanent device placed completely under your skin. The catheter is attached to a small reservoir, which is also hidden.

Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC line)

A PICC line extends from an arm vein into your largest vein near the heart. This can provide central IV access for weeks or even months.

Hemodialysis catheter

In the case of kidney failure, venous access is especially important. Your body relies on your kidneys to clean your blood, so if they’re not able to complete this vital task, medical intervention is necessary.

Hemodialysis is a procedure to clean your blood using a unique filter called a dialyzer. A hemodialysis catheter temporarily gives your provider the access they need to complete this filtration process. For a more permanent solution, you need an arteriovenous graft or fistula.

What can I expect from a venous access procedure?

You may need to fast for eight hours before the procedure, and be sure to let the team know of any medications you take so they can tailor your recommendations to your needs. You may also need to remove necklaces to protect the entry site.

To ensure your comfort, the team can administer numbing medications or sedation. They thoroughly clean the access area and use X-ray guidance to meticulously position your catheter.

The procedure is quick and usually well-tolerated. Expect some drowsiness and for the catheter to feel a little strange until you get used to it.

To learn more about venous access procedures at RIA Endovascular, call the office nearest you or book an appointment online today.