Permacath Placement for Dialysis
Reliable long-term access for hemodialysis patients
About Permacath
A Permacath is a specialized catheter placed in a large vein (usually in the chest) to provide reliable access for patients requiring frequent hemodialysis treatments.
Key Features
- •Designed for long-term use (months to years)
- •Two lumens for blood flow in/out
- •Tunneled under skin for stability
- •Dacron cuff prevents infection
Procedure Details
1
Preparation
Ultrasound mapping of veins, local anesthesia, and sterile draping of the insertion site (typically chest or neck area).
2
Insertion
Catheter is tunneled under the skin and placed in a large central vein, with tip positioned near the heart for optimal flow.
3
Confirmation
Fluoroscopy confirms proper placement before securing the catheter with sutures and applying a sterile dressing.
Benefits
- ✓Immediate dialysis access
- ✓No needle sticks required
- ✓Can remain for months to years
- ✓Higher blood flow than temporary catheters
Considerations
- •Risk of infection (2-5% annually)
- •Possible clotting or malfunction
- •Requires careful maintenance
- •Not ideal for swimming/bathing
Care & Maintenance
Daily Care
- •Keep dressing clean and dry
- •Change dressing after each dialysis
- •Watch for redness or swelling
When to Call
- •Fever or chills
- •Drainage from site
- •Difficulty flushing catheter
Dialysis Emergency?
- •Catheter falls out
- •Severe bleeding at site
- •Sudden shortness of breath
Quick Facts
Procedure Time
30-60 minutes
Anesthesia
Local with sedation
Lifespan
6 months to several years
Recovery
Can be used immediately