A Permcath, also known as a tunneled catheter is a type of IV line that is used for short-term hemodialysis treatment in patients with kidney failure. The catheter is inserted into a large vein in the neck or upper chest, just under the collarbone, and is tunneled under the skin to reduce the risk of infection.
Permcaths are typically used for patients who require hemodialysis for a short period, such as those who are waiting for a kidney transplant or those who are recovering from acute kidney injury. The catheter allows for easy access to the bloodstream, which is necessary for hemodialysis treatment.
The Permcath insertion procedure is typically performed by a trained healthcare provider, such as a nephrologist or interventional radiologist, using local anesthesia. The catheter is inserted into the vein, and the tip is advanced until it reaches a large blood vessel near the heart. The catheter is then tunneled under the skin to the exit site, where it is secured in place with sutures.
After the catheter is inserted, it is important to properly care for it to reduce the risk of complications, such as infection or catheter malfunction. This includes keeping the exit site clean and dry, monitoring for signs of infection, and flushing the catheter regularly with saline and heparin to maintain patency.
