Tunneled Catheter Removal

Procedure:  Bedside Cuffed Catheter Removal

Indication: No longer needing Permacath

Date:    

Operators:  Drs.    

Access Site:  Right internal jugular with ultrasound

Medications: Local anesthetic

Catheter:  Existing Permacath – Tunneled – Right chest wall

Fluoroscopy time: None

Complications:  None immediate.

 

Technique:

The risks, benefits, and alternatives to the procedure and sedation were explained to the patient. Written informed consent was obtained.  A timeout was performed.

The right chest wall and area immediately around the existing catheter was prepped and draped in sterile fashion.  Using local anesthetic, the tract was anesthetized. Utilizing a hemostat, the tract was accessed and the cuff freed from the surrounding soft tissues. The catheter was then pulled with gentle traction until it was completely removed. Gentle pressure over the right neck healed venotomy site was then applied until hemostasis was achieved.  Sterile dressing was then applied.

The procedure was well tolerated, and the patient was discharged in satisfactory condition.

 

Findings/Impression:

  1. Successful removal of a tunneled Permacath