Dialysis Catheter Insertion
Dialysis catheter insertion is a procedure to place a soft tube into a large vein (for hemodialysis) or the abdominal cavity (for peritoneal dialysis) to allow blood or fluid filtration when kidneys fail.
Dialysis Catheter Insertion for Hemodialysis & Peritoneal Dialysis
Done under local anesthesia with sedation, guided by ultrasound and fluoroscopy. For tunneled catheters, it's inserted via the internal jugular vein and tunneled under the skin to a chest exit site. The procedure takes 30–60 minutes and can be used immediately.
Risk Factors
- Infection (catheter-related bloodstream infection)
- Blood clots (thrombosis)
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Pneumothorax (rare)
- Catheter malposition or malfunction
- Vascular erosion
Advanced Treatment Options
Non-Tunneled (Temporary)
Placed in the neck (jugular) or groin (femoral) for short-term use.
Tunneled (Long-Term)
Passed under the skin with a Dacron cuff (e.g., Perm-Cath). Used for weeks to months.
Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters
Inserted into the abdomen (e.g., Tenckhoff) for home dialysis.
How the Procedure Works
Guidance
Procedure is guided by ultrasound and fluoroscopy for maximum precision.
Insertion
Catheter is placed in the internal jugular vein or abdominal cavity.
Verification
Position is confirmed with a post-procedure chest X-ray.
Lifestyle Changes
- Keep the exit site clean and dry
- Avoid swimming or submerging the site
- Regular flushing with heparin/saline to prevent blockage
Key Benefits & Advantages
Immediate use after placement
Minimally invasive pinhole access
Guided by real-time imaging
Options for both short-term and long-term care
Recovery & Aftercare
Monitor for redness, swelling, or fever. Avoid strenuous activity for 3–5 days. Do not drive for 24 hours.
Related Vascular Care Procedures
Book a Consultation
Schedule an appointment with our specialists to discuss if Dialysis Catheter Insertion is right for you.
