Venous access – insertion of a small, thin tube (catheter) into a vein for a prolonged amount of time to administer medication (chemotherapy, IV therapy, blood transfusion) or withdraw fluid (hemodialysis).

Lancaster General Hospital works with patients to establish venous access when needed for medical treatment. The staff is trained to understand the delicate nature of veins and to establish access with minimal pain and discomfort.

Venous access devices and uses

PICC lines- Small plastic tubes (catheters), similar to regular IVs, although longer. They are placed in an arm vein, but unlike a conventional IV, the tip of the PICC line rests in a larger vein that is closer to the heart. They are intended to remain in place for prolonged periods of time for the administration of various medications. Most often used to administer antibiotics and nutrition.

Medi-ports, perm caths, central lines-   Surgically placed, larger catheters for use in chemotherapy, renal dialysis and other monitoring and medication delivery uses. Medi-ports are implanted under the skin surface for access with a needle. Perm caths and central lines will generally exit somewhere between the neck and the shoulder.

Dialysis grafts and fistulas-   Surgically placed tubes or vessel connections that allow for repeated access of a large vessel for renal dialysis. Usually found in the lower or upper arm.