MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT
Permacath, PICC & Chemoport Insertion
Permacath, peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), and chemoport insertion are minimally invasive, image-guided procedures used to establish reliable long-term or short-term venous access for dialysis, chemotherapy, medications, and nutritional support.
What Are Permacath, PICC & Chemoport?
These are central venous access devices placed under imaging guidance to allow safe and repeated access to large veins.
Permacath is commonly used for long-term dialysis access, PICC lines are used for medium-term intravenous therapy, and chemoports are implanted devices designed for long-term chemotherapy and medication delivery.
When Are These Devices Considered?
Central venous access devices may be considered in patients who require:
- Long-term hemodialysis access
- Chemotherapy or cancer-related treatments
- Prolonged intravenous medications or antibiotics
- Frequent blood sampling
- Nutritional support through intravenous routes
Device selection depends on clinical indication, duration of therapy, and patient factors.
How Permacath, PICC & Chemoport Are Inserted
- The procedure is performed under image guidance
- Local anesthesia is commonly used
- A vein is accessed using ultrasound guidance
- The catheter or port is positioned precisely under imaging control
- Device placement is confirmed before use
Potential Advantages of Image-Guided Venous Access
- Minimally invasive, image-guided placement
- Reduced risk of malposition
- Reliable long-term or short-term venous access
- Avoids repeated needle punctures
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients can resume routine activities shortly after the procedure. Device care instructions are provided, and follow-up may be scheduled to assess function and site condition.
Recovery recommendations vary based on individual clinical factors and should be followed as advised by the treating doctor
Risks and Considerations
Like all interventional procedures, central venous access insertion has potential risks, including:
- Bleeding or bruising at the insertion site
- Infection
- Catheter blockage or displacement
- Rare complications related to vein access
Not all patients experience these effects, and risks vary depending on patient condition and device type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is insertion of these devices a surgical procedure?
No. These are minimally invasive, image-guided procedures performed without open surgery.
How long can these devices remain in place?
Duration depends on the type of device and clinical need. Some are designed for short-term use, while others may remain for months or longer.
Is hospital admission required?
Many insertions are performed on a day-care basis, depending on patient condition and clinical requirements.
Consult for Venous Access Device Placement
Clinical evaluation helps determine the most appropriate venous access device and ensures safe placement under imaging guidance.