What is Permacath Insertion?
A permacath, or tunneled hemodynamic catheter, is a flexible, long tube with two hollow bores inserted into a vein, usually in the neck or femoral vein. It transports blood to and from a dialysis machine, with a cuff to protect against infections. Permacaths ensure continuous bloodstream access for treatments like dialysis, medicine administration, and apheresis for conditions like leukemia and sickle cell disease. Made of soft silicone, the catheter features a staggered tip for separation between the arterial lumen and venous tip, and comes in various lengths to accommodate different patient anatomies and physician practices.
| Procedure Name | Permcath Insertion |
|---|---|
| Type of Surgery | Catheterization |
| Type of Anesthesia | Local anesthesia with sedation |
| Procedure Duration | 45 minutes |
| Recovery Duration | No extensive recovery is required |
Permcath Insertion: Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
Preparation for Permacath Insertion
Before the procedure, the patient is kept in NBM for 5–6 hours. Inform the doctor about ongoing medications, allergies, and past infections. The patient should undergo blood tests, a physical examination, and a Doppler scan before the procedure.
During the permacath procedure
After administering the anesthesia or sedative, a wire is guided into the right atrium of the heart through the external jugular vein, creating a tunnel. A cuff is used to keep the catheter in place under the chest wall. The catheter exits the chest wall, and a transparent dressing is applied to the stitches.
After the procedure
After surgery, a clear dressing is applied to maintain cleanliness and prevent soreness in the permacath area. A chest X-ray is likely to confirm successful surgery. Post-surgery recovery is quick, and the permcath is ready for immediate use.
Recovery time for permacath placement
Recovery from a permcath insertion typically involves a quick hospital stay, allowing patients to return home the same day of the procedure.
Post-procedure care
Catheter Care Guidelines include:
- Avoid lifting weights over 5 kg.
- Avoid wetting the catheter or dressing during baths.
- Report catheter-site symptoms to the doctor.
- Ensure bleeding at the catheter site.
- Avoid vigorous activities like contact sports and swimming.
- Use a clean, dry dressing over the catheter site for infection prevention
Benefits of Permcath Insertion at Yashoda Hospitals
- Reduces needle insertions and infection risk.
- Offers greater comfort due to minimal needle placements.
- Facilitates quicker and less invasive treatment.
- Improves mobility compared to traditional IVs.
- Minimizes hospitalizations with no blood loss.
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