A central venous catheter is a soft tube placed into a large vein, usually in the neck or groin, to provide immediate access for dialysis. It can be a temporary catheter for urgent dialysis or a tunnelled catheter, which passes under the skin and is suited to longer use. Dialysis in Mumbai often begins with a catheter when kidney failure is sudden, and Apex performs percutaneous cannula placement, usually with ultrasound or imaging guidance and local anaesthesia.

How the Procedure Can Help

A catheter allows dialysis to start straight away in patients with sudden kidney failure or those whose fistula or graft is not ready. It acts as a bridge until permanent access can be used.

Risks and Considerations

Catheters carry a higher risk of bloodstream infection and clotting than fistulas and grafts, so they are used for as short a time as possible. Bleeding, lung puncture during insertion and narrowing of the central vein with long use can occur. The dressing must be kept clean and dry.