What is Dialysis Catheter Insertion?
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for patients with kidney failure, and one of the critical components of this process is the insertion of a dialysis catheter. This procedure provides a direct route for dialysis treatments, ensuring that the blood is efficiently filtered. Here, we provide an in-depth look at dialysis catheter insertion, its importance, procedure, and care tips.
A dialysis catheter is a flexible, hollow tube that is inserted into a large vein, typically in the neck, chest, or groin. It allows for the easy flow of blood to and from the dialysis machine, where it can be filtered and cleaned. There are two main types of dialysis catheters:
- Temporary Catheters: Used for short-term dialysis or until a more permanent access site can be established.
- Permanent (Tunneled) Catheters: Designed for long-term use, often tunneled under the skin to decrease the risk of infection.