When you need long-term access to a vein for treatments like chemotherapy, dialysis or fluid drainage, tunneled catheters offer a reliable solution that minimizes complications while maximizing comfort. At the Orange County Interventional Radiology Center, our specialists use advanced image-guided techniques to place these specialized catheters with precision, ensuring you receive the ongoing care you need with minimal disruption to your daily life.

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What Are Tunneled Catheter Procedures?

Tunneled catheters are used to provide long-term access to a venous site for patients undergoing medical treatments like chemotherapy or dialysis. Unlike standard catheters that need frequent replacement, tunneled catheters are designed to remain in place for months or even years. The catheter is inserted into the appropriate blood vessel or cavity and then “tunneled” beneath the skin before exiting the body at a different location. This significantly reduces infection risks and provides greater stability compared to non-tunneled options.

Types of Tunneled Catheter Procedures We Offer

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Vascular

Implantable Ports

While technically not tunneled catheters, ports are related devices we specialize in placing. These fully implanted devices connect to a central vein but remain completely under the skin, requiring no external components between treatments. They’re ideal for long-term therapy with minimal lifestyle interference.

Tunneled Dialysis Catheter Placement

Specifically designed for patients requiring ongoing dialysis, these specialized catheters allow for the high blood flow rates necessary for effective treatments. Our team ensures proper placement for optimal function and longevity.

Tunneled Central Venous Catheters

These catheters provide reliable access to large veins near the heart, making them ideal for administering medications, chemotherapy, antibiotics or nutritional supplements, or for drawing blood samples without repeated needle sticks. They’re particularly valuable for patients undergoing long-term treatment.

Nonvascular (Fluid Drainage)

Tunneled Pleural Catheter Placement

For patients with recurrent pleural effusions (fluid around the lungs), tunneled pleural catheters offer long-term drainage capability. These catheters allow patients to manage fluid drainage at home, reducing hospital visits and improving their quality of life.

Tunneled Peritoneal Catheter Placement

These catheters provide access to the peritoneal cavity (the space within the abdomen that contains the intestines, stomach and liver) for peritoneal dialysis or to drain accumulated fluid in conditions like ascites. The tunneled approach enhances comfort and reduces complications.

Ideal Candidates for Tunneled Catheter Procedures

Tunneled catheters provide crucial benefits for patients who:

  • Require frequent or long-term intravenous treatments like chemotherapy
  • Need ongoing hemodialysis access
  • Have recurrent fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen
  • Require extended antibiotic therapy
  • Need regular blood draws to avoid repeated needle sticks
  • Require long-term nutritional support
  • Have limited or damaged peripheral veins that make standard access difficult

What to Expect During Treatment

Your tunneled catheter procedure will be performed by our skilled interventional specialists in our state-of-the-art outpatient facility. The procedure typically takes about an hour and uses conscious sedation to ensure your comfort. You’ll remain awake but relaxed throughout the process. Our team uses advanced imaging technology to guide catheter placement with pinpoint accuracy, minimizing risks and complications. Once placed, the catheter allows for immediate access without additional needle sticks.

Tunneled Catheter Recovery

Most patients can return home the same day after a brief observation period. You might experience mild discomfort at the insertion sites for a day or two, which typically responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers. Our team will provide detailed instructions on catheter care and maintenance, including how to keep the exit site clean and dry. Regular follow-up appointments will ensure your catheter continues functioning properly, and our specialists are always available to address any concerns.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Call the Orange County Interventional Radiology Center today at (949) 317-1633 to learn more about our tunneled catheter procedures or to schedule a consultation at our Lake Forest, Mission Viejo or Irvine locations.

Our Locations

Three Locations, One Commitment: Your Care

Lake Forest

29300 Portola Parkway, Suite B
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Mission Viejo

26921 Crown Valley Parkway, #120
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Irvine

18102 Sky Park Circle South, Suite D
Irvine, CA 92614
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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