CVCs may also be called venous access devices (VADs).
Tunneled CVC
Tunneled CVCs are called by many different names.
Examples of tunneled CVCs include Broviac, Hickman, Neostar, Leonard, and Groshong.
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Usually, tunneled CVCs are inserted in a surgical suite or in a sterile procedure room.
The healthcare provider who is inserting the catheter will make two small incisions on your chest.
Then, they will make a tunnel under the skin between the two incisions.
The tunnel will heal over time and it serves two purposes.
PICCs are usually inserted in a sterile procedure by either a specialized nurse or a healthcare provider.
During the insertion, you will be awake and alert.
Sometimes, they will use an ultrasound to get a view of the vein.
There will be a dressing applied over the site.
Implanted Ports
Implanted ports, sometimes called port-a-caths, are small devices with a catheter attached.
Some patients complain of a pinching sensation when the needle is inserted.
When the implanted port is not in use, there is no dressing required.
They are designed for long-term use and provide healthcare providers with access to large blood vessels in your body.
In fact, some treatments or therapies require the use of a CVC.
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