Central Lines

A central line is also known as a central venous catheter, or they are sometimes called by their brand names such as HICKMAN® or GROSHONG® lines. A central line is a long tube made from soft plastic with a clamp at the end for when the line is not being used. It is inserted into the chest until the tip of the tube is just by your heart. At the other end there is a cap where a drip line or syringe can be attached.

Why do I need one?

The catheter is so that fluids can easily be given to you. They are often used to give antibiotics, chemotherapy and sometimes to feed people. Central catheters are a good way to get these fluids into your body without having to give you lots of injections or drips (all your treatment can be given to you without you actually feeling it).

How will it be inserted?

You will be given a general anaesthetic so that you will not feel the central line going in. A small cut is made into the skin by your collarbone and the tip of the line is threaded through a large vein until it is close to your heart. The other end of the tube is threaded further down your chest (under the skin) and will pop out a few inches below the collarbone. You will have to have an x-ray
of your chest to make sure that it is in the right place.

How long will it take to put in?

It can take between half an hour and an hour to complete the procedure.

How long will I have it for?

A central line can be kept for weeks or even months. It will need to be flushed every week to stop it from getting clogged up and the area will have to be cleaned weekly so that you do not get an infection.

Does it hurt?

It might hurt a little bit for a few days after it has been put in.

Do not break or cut the line. It is really important that air does not get into the central line. If the line does get split try to clamp the line above the split (nearer to your body) then call your hospital.

There is a chance that you will not be able to go swimming or have a bath with a central line. Please check this with your nurse.

For more help and information

Visit NHS Direct or speak to your doctor.

Last reviewed by Great Ormond Street Hospital: 12 December 2006

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