Safe removal of long-term venous catheters in the neck

Abstract

Aims: Tunnelled venous catheters are a well-established method of long-term venous access for total parental nutrition, chemotherapy and antimicrobial treatment. Removal of these catheters is a simple procedure; however, there are some significant risks.

Methods: We report a case in which a serious complication occurred. A simple technique for the safe removal of long-term venous catheters is described.

Conclusion: A direct surgical removal is now generally favoured for safe line removal. However, this still carries the same complications and care must be taken in the technique.

Keywords: Venous catheters; interventional radiology; tunnelled catheters.