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A CVAC is a long, soft plastic tube (usually made of silicone) that is inserted beneath your skin so there is a simple, pain-free way for doctors or nurses to give you medication, nutrients, or to draw your blood. Doctors recommend CVACs for patients who: regularly undergo chemotherapy treatments, frequently receive antibiotic or anti-fungal infusions, or frequently receive nutritional supplements.
There are several types of CVAC:
- Tunneled catheters
- Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC lines)
- Implantable Ports
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Tunneled catheters are for longer term needs, to provide access for nutrition and medications.The purpose of tunneling the catheter under the skin is to help prevent infection. more... |
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PICC lines (Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters) are used for drawing blood, and for giving intravenous fluids, blood, medication, or nutrition.
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A port is used mainly when I.V. access is needed only intermittently over a long period of time, as in patients who require chemotherapy. more... |
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 | Central Venous Access |
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