Central venous access and dialysis access

Implantable devices for systemic chemotherapy

Implantable venous access devices are used for the safe delivery of chemotherapy, blood products, or long-term antibiotics.

The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis and under local anesthesia. A catheter is inserted into a vein in the shoulder or the neck and is pushed until the catheter almost enters the heart. Then, the catheter is connected to a reservoir which is placed under the skin at the level of the pectoral muscle. Subsequently, when administering the drugs, a needle is placed through the skin into this reservoir.

The Division of Digestive Surgery offers specialized consultations for implantable venous access devices, whether for insertion, removal or requests related to their maintenance.

Arterio-venous fistula

An arterio-venous fistula is a communication between an artery and a vein. Such a fistula can be surgically constructed in the forearm to provide access for hemodialysis (FR) for patients with chronic renal failure. An arterio-venous fistula therefore offers an easy and high-flow access to purify the blood. This intervention is carried out by the Division of Transplantation.

Peritoneal dialysis catheter

Peritoneal dialysis (FR) is a dialysis method for patients suffering from chronic renal failure (FR) using filtration by the peritoneum - the membrane lining the abdominal cavity and abdominal organs.

In order to proceed with this dialysis technique, implantation of a catheter going through the abdominal wall into the abdominal cavity is necessary. Thereafter, dialysis fluid is infused into the abdominal cavity and absorbs the elements to be eliminated from the blood, as well as the excess water, before being sucked back through the catheter. This intervention is carried out by the Division of Transplantation.