When you have to go to the hospital several times a week to get medicine, or when someone with kidney failure has to undergo long-term treatment, such as dialysis , to purify the blood, how painful and annoying is it to have to stick a needle into your body every time? Imagine finding a new vein every day and inserting a needle. To avoid such inconveniences, doctors use a special device. That's what we call a permacath.
So, what exactly is a Permacath?
Simply put, a permacatheter is a special, soft tube ( catheter ) that is inserted into a large blood vessel in your body, usually a vein in your neck. The special thing about this is that once it is inserted, it can be left in place for a long time, sometimes even permanently . That's why it's called a 'permacatheter', which means 'permanent catheter '.
Once inserted, you can connect directly to your blood system through this tube, without having to use needles every time. It is very easy to treat with this. It is mainly used for:
- Hemodialysis for kidney patients: Having a permacatheter is a great convenience for this treatment, which requires several hours of dialysis several times a week.
- To administer special medications: Some medications given for diseases like cancer need to be given for a long time.
- Apheresis treatment: This involves separating and removing some of the harmful components from the blood. This treatment is used for diseases such as leukemia and sickle cell disease.
What is the difference between PermaKath and other treatments?
There are several ways to connect to your blood vessels for hemodialysis. Your doctor will choose the method that is best for you. Let's look at the main methods.
| Treatment method | Simply put, | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| AV fistula (Arteriovenous fistula - AVF) | A surgical procedure connects an artery and a vein in your arm. | This is the best and longest-lasting method. However, once it is created, it takes several months for the body to become strong enough to receive treatment through it. |
| AV Graft (Arteriovenous graft - AVG) | If the artery and vein cannot be connected together, a soft, artificial tube is inserted between the two. | This is a good option for those who cannot have a fistula created, but the risk of blood clots (thrombosis) is slightly higher. |
| Permacath | A special tube is inserted into a large vein in the neck or chest. | This is the best solution if you need dialysis urgently, or if other methods are not successful. It can be used immediately after insertion. |
In particular, the type of permacatheter that has a 'cuff' is the one that is used long-term. Because of this cuff, over time, your body's tissues grow around it, keeping it in place and preventing it from moving around inside your body. It also prevents infection from entering.
How is a permacatheter inserted into the body?
This is like a urinary tract surgery. So there's nothing to worry about. This is how it usually happens.
Before surgery
Your doctor will explain the procedure to you thoroughly. He will discuss all the pros and cons and obtain your consent. In an emergency, this may need to be done without your consent to save your life.
During surgery
This only takes about 45 minutes to do. The doctors will make sure that you don't feel any discomfort. You may be given general anesthesia , or a numbing medicine (lidocaine) will be injected only where the permacatheter is placed.
The doctor uses a technique called ultrasound or fluoroscopy (an X-ray that allows you to see a real-time video of the inside of your body) to very carefully insert this tube into your vein. One end of the tube is inserted into the right atrium of your heart. The other end is brought out through the skin of your chest.
After the surgery
After the surgery, a transparent dressing will be applied to keep the area clean. It is normal to feel some pain and stiffness in the area for a few days. A chest X-ray will be done to make sure everything went well. You will be able to go home after a few hours of rest. Also, the Permacatheter can be used for treatment immediately after it is inserted.
How do you care for a permalink at home?
Because a person with a permacatheter is at risk of infection, it is extremely important to keep it clean and take good care of it. Follow your doctor's instructions exactly.
- Do not let water get in your eyes on the first day. Do not bathe or go swimming.
- It is normal for a little blood to come out of the Permacatheter. However, if the dressing becomes stained with blood, carefully remove it, rinse it with water, and apply a new one.
- Do not pull or move the catheter . If it comes out of place, you may need to have a new one inserted.
- Never remove the cap on the outside of the permacatheter. Doing so can allow air to enter, creating a dangerous situation.
- Do not apply any antibiotic creams to the wound unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
If you have these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
If any of the following happens to you, inform your doctor without delay. If it is an emergency, go straight to the Emergency Department (ETU) .
- If you feel feverish, cold, and shivering.
- If the area where the Permacathe was applied is swollen, red, or painful.
- If the catheter seems to have been moved or has come completely out of place.
- If the wound bleeds continuously for more than 20 minutes.
What are the benefits and risks of a permacatheter?
Like any medical procedure, permacatheter has both benefits and risks.
| Benefits | Risks |
|---|---|
| Ease of long-term or permanent connection to the blood system. | Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can occur, especially MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a bacteria that is resistant to antibiotics. |
| Eliminates the pain and discomfort caused by frequent needle pricks. | Thrombosis: There is a risk of blood clots forming around the catheter. |
| Ready to use as soon as you insert it. | Dislodgement: The catheter may move or slip out of place. |
There is no need to be afraid of these risks. The most important thing is to take care of the permalink properly and cleanly and to be aware of the risk factors. Then you can avoid many problems.
Take-Home Message
- Permacath is a special long-term tube that helps eliminate the need for frequent needle insertions for long-term treatments like dialysis.
- This is inserted through a minor surgery and can be used immediately after insertion.
- It is essential to keep the permacatheter very clean and carefully cared for to prevent infection and blood clots.
- Always be on the lookout for warning signs like fever, swelling, and excessive bleeding. If you have any concerns, let your doctor know right away.
- Always talk to your doctor about what treatment option is best for you.
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