Venous Access

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) and ports can be placed percutaneously without general anesthesia with ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance.  The access may be into a peripheral vein (PICC, arm ports) or into a central vein (chest ports).  In both cases the catheter portion extends internally to the superior vena cava , the big vein near the heart.  Single or multiple lumen devices are available.

PICC lines can be used for purposes of blood draws, intravenous fluids, medications, or total parenteral nutrition.  Ports which can be placed in the arm or in the chest are typically used for chemotherapy.  Both procedures are performed as outpatient procedures