What is a Permcath?

A permcath is a long, flexible, tubular device with two hollow bores inserted into a vein. This approach involves injecting it into the internal jugular vein in the neck although less commonly it may also be injected into femoral vein in thighs. The body will receive blood from the dialysis machine through the other hollow bore of the permcath. The permcath will support the catheter and act as a cap within the skin while preventing infection at the same time, provided it is cuff-bearing.

Why would you require Permcath?

The purpose of a permacath is to assist the people who have frequent dialysis needs. Multiple needle punctures through veins and arteries to administer dialysis can cause scarring of these vital organs and increase the risk of infection. After being inserted, the Permacath eliminates any further injection of needles and provides fast access to dialysis therapy.

What is the procedure for Permcath insertion?

The only hope for patients with renal failure and chronic kidney disease is dialysis. The most common mode of access during dialysis is AV Fistual. If that fails or not possible then a second preferable kind of long-term hemodialysis is called Permcath implantation.

The term Permcath refers to a flexible tube having two hollow bores which are placed into a vein. Permcath is often placed in the internal jugular vein and rarely into the femoral vein of the groin area. Through one hollow bore blood flows from whereas the other bore carries blood from machine to body from dialysis machine to the body. A cuff keeps the catheter in place and protects it from infections, which also acts as a barrier.

Before the procedure

• Do not take anything orally or consume any fluids for at least four hours before the surgery.
• Inform the surgeon about all medications being taken and especially if on blood thinners.
• Inform your surgeon if you have ever had an infection or allergies to medications.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothes and do not bring jewellery and other valuable items with you.
• Do not wear glasses, hearing aids, and dentures in the operating room during the procedure.
• This would include the Doppler scan, physical examination, and several blood tests before permcath implantation.

During the procedure

• To inject the drug directly into the vein, an IV cannula-a small, flexible, thin tube will be inserted into the back of the hand.
• The patient should lie down and receive intravenous sedatives to relax the body and provide control of pain, while the site where the catheter is to be placed will be scrubbed with either a sterile or antiseptic solution.
• To determine the oxygen level in the blood, the doctor will place a clip over a finger.
• The physician will then pass a wire down from the exterior of the body through the external jugular vein into the superior vena cava or right atrium of the heart once the patient is unconscious. It will create an opportunity for the physician to make a tunnel to insert the catheter into the right atrium of the heart. The cuff will keep the catheter in place since it rests under the chest wall. A clear dressing will be placed on the stitches at the insertion site where the catheter leaves the chest wall.
• The stitches and the dressing will hold the catheter in position. The stitches and the dressing will be removed after ten days.
• After permacath insertion, an X-ray imaging test will be administered to the patient to confirm that the implant has reached the correct position.

The process takes roughly forty-five minutes.

What safety precautions should be followed after the procedure?

• Avoid weight lifting over 5 kg.
• Never soak the dressing or catheter while taking a bath.
• Instruct the doctor of any symptom that develops, like redness, discharge, pain, or fever, at the site of the catheter.
• If there is any bleeding in that area, make sure to inform the doctor about it.
• Don't participate in any heavy exercises, like swimming and contact sports.
• The site must also be kept dry and clean to maintain the catheter in place and reduce the chance of infection.

What are the benefits of having a Permcath?

• Compared to a temporary jugular catheter, there is less chance to be infected.
• It stays in the body for a longer period compared to the jugular temporary catheter.

What are the risks of Permcath insertion?

Some complications of a permacath are as follows:

• Infection: There is a risk of infection at the catheter exit site, the catheter insertion site, or even in the blood. Antibiotics and catheter removal usually are necessary when an infection occurs.
• Bleeding: There is a possibility of bleeding at the catheter insertion site.
• Migration: The chance of migration for a permacath is 37%.
• Thrombosis: A blood clot or thrombosis is 17% likely to occur.
• Catheter embolization: A permacath may embolize and go unnoticed for a long period of time. One may not understand that something is wrong with a catheter if it is not working properly.
• Misplacement: In case of a misplaced permacath, it can lead to dangerous situations.

A doctor will ensure that measures are implemented to prevent infection; the site must be kept clean and dry after the procedure.

How long does the procedure take?

Recovery from this operation usually lasts for one to two hours; the procedure itself takes almost an hour.

How long does Permcath last?

The time can be up to one year while the catheter is inserted.

Why Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Permcath insertion in Lucknow, India? 

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital is one of the best hospitals for Permcath insertion in Lucknow, India. We have a highly experienced team of vascular surgeons who use advanced tools and follow international standard infection control measures. Our hospital ensures safer procedures, quicker recovery, and improved long-term outcomes.

To seek an expert consultation for Permcath insertion in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request a Call Back