Central Venous Catheter (CVC) Removal

A central venous catheter is a long, plastic, y-shaped, flexible tube. During an outpatient procedure, a physician who specializes in vascular access makes a small incision in the skin over the selected vein located in the neck, upper chest, or groin. Then, using a guide wire the catheter is inserted into the vein.
Central-venous-catheter

The terminal section of the CVC (Central Venous Catheter) protrudes externally from your body. The pair of pliable tubes extending from the Y-shaped end of your CVC are linked to the bloodlines during dialysis. This connection facilitates the movement of blood to and from your body through the dialysis machine. To safeguard these tubes when not in use, a protective cap is affixed at the terminus of the Y-shaped configuration.

Serious complications associated with CVC (Central Venous Catheter) usage include:

1. Serious Infection from CVC:
   • Infections stemming from CVCs can manifest as localized (confined to the insertion site) or systemic (affecting the entire body). Approximately 30%–60% of CVCs are removed due to infection, and patients with CVCs experience higher hospitalization rates compared to those with other dialysis accesses. The most perilous infectious complication is catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), linked to elevated morbidity and mortality rates.
2. Risk of Clots:
   • Blood clots have the potential to form on or within the internal opening of the catheter, impeding or completely obstructing blood flow. When clot formation occurs, it necessitates dissolution, typically through medication, before resuming proper care.
3. Damage to Blood Vessels:
   • Prolonged use of a CVC can lead to stenosis, or narrowing, of the vein(s) where it is positioned. This narrowing may result in damage to the vein walls, potentially impeding adequate blood flow.