A central venous catheter is a long, thin tube placed into a large vein, usually in the neck, below the collarbone or in the groin, with its tip close to the heart. It allows strong medicines, fluids, blood products and nutrition to be given safely, and blood samples and pressure readings to be taken without repeated needle pricks.

At Apex, the doctor uses ultrasound guidance where possible, strict sterile technique and local anaesthetic. A critical care specialist in Mumbai chooses the site according to the patient's condition and the risk of complications, and a chest X-ray confirms the tip position after neck or chest placement. The catheter is removed as soon as it is no longer needed.

How the Procedure Can Help

It provides dependable access for medicines that cannot go through a small vein, such as those that support blood pressure, and allows close tracking of fluid balance.

Risks and Considerations

Possible risks include infection of the line or bloodstream, clots, bleeding, accidental puncture of an artery, a collapsed lung with neck or chest placement and, rarely, air entering the vein or a change in heart rhythm. Strict hygiene during placement and a daily review of whether the line is still needed lower these risks.