Tunneled Catheter Permcath Insertion
What is a Tunneled Catheter (Permcath)?
A Tunneled Catheter, commonly known as a Permcath, is a specialized long-term access device for hemodialysis. Unlike temporary catheters, it is “tunneled” under the skin, which creates a physical barrier against bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of infection. For patients in Gurugram and Delhi-NCR whose AV Fistula is not ready or has failed, Dr. Mukherjee provides expert Permcath placement at Medanta Sector 38 to ensure uninterrupted life-saving dialysis.
Permcath Clinical Placement
Permcaths are usually placed in the Internal Jugular Vein (IJV) for optimal blood flow.
When is a Permcath Necessary?
At Medanta Gurugram, we recommend a Tunneled Catheter for:
- Immediate dialysis needs in CKD
- Failure of existing AV Fistula/Graft
- Bridge access while a Fistula matures
- Patients with poor vascular anatomy
- Long-term dialysis in elderly patients
- Exhausted peritoneal dialysis options
The Procedure: Precision & Safety
1. Mapping & Numbing
The vein is located using high-resolution ultrasound. The area is then numbed with local anesthesia for a pain-free experience at our Gurugram clinic.
2. Tunneling
A small tunnel is created under the skin. The catheter cuff is placed here, where tissue grows into it to anchor the device and block infection.
3. Final Placement
The catheter tip is positioned in the Right Atrium for maximum flow, confirmed via fluoroscopy/X-ray by our Medanta Medicity experts.
Why Choose Permcath?
- Longevity: Can last several months to years.
- High Flow: Supports efficient dialysis clearance.
- Ready to Use: Can be used immediately after insertion.
- Secure: Cuff design prevents accidental pull-out.
Risk Management
While highly effective, we monitor for:
- Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI)
- Thrombosis (Clots)
- Fibrin sheath formation
Expert Care for Your Permcath
To ensure your catheter lasts as long as possible, follow these Senior Director’s Tips:
- Keep it Dry: Never submerge the catheter in water.
- Sterile Handling: Only trained Medanta dialysis staff should touch the ports.
- Heparin Locks: Proper heparin concentration after each session is vital.
- Monitoring: Report fever or redness in Gurugram immediately.
Reliable Long-Term Dialysis Access
Consult with Dr. Mukherjee for advanced vascular access solutions at Medanta – The Medicity, Sector 38, Gurugram.
OPD & Consultation
Dialysis Helpline
Medanta – The Medicity, Sector 38, Gurugram
Email: dirnephro@gmail.com
Prof (Dr) D Mukherjee is an alumnus of the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College, Pune where he did his MBBS & MD (Medicine). Subsequently he went on to do his DM (Nephrology) from PGIMER Chandigarh, which is the foremost training institution for nephrology in India.