How long can a tunneled catheter stay in place?

Tunneled catheters can function for months to years with proper care. Some patients use them for several years when other access options aren't available.

Can I shower with a tunneled catheter?

Yes, you can shower but must keep the exit site dry using a waterproof covering. Swimming and baths should be avoided due to infection risk.

What are the signs of catheter infection?

Signs include fever, chills, redness or drainage at the exit site, pain along the tunnel, and feeling unwell, especially after dialysis.

How often do tunneled catheters need to be replaced?

Replacement frequency varies, but many catheters function for 1-2 years or longer. Replacement is needed for infection, dysfunction, or mechanical problems.

Can I travel with a tunneled catheter?

Yes, but you'll need to arrange dialysis at your destination and carry catheter care supplies. Inform security about your catheter when flying.

Tunneled Dialysis Catheter Placement in Prattville, Alabama

Reliable Long-Term Dialysis Access When Other Options Aren’t Available

Schedule an Appointment

Safe, Long-Term Access When Fistulas or Grafts Aren’t Possible

When arteriovenous fistulas and grafts cannot be created or have failed, tunneled dialysis catheters provide essential long-term vascular access for life-sustaining hemodialysis. At Advanced Vascular and Wound Care in Prattville, Alabama, our board-certified vascular surgeons specialize in placing tunneled dialysis catheters using advanced techniques to maximize function and minimize complications.

Don't let vessel challenges or access failures prevent you from receiving vital dialysis treatment. Expert tunneled catheter placement can provide reliable access when other options aren't available.

What Is a Tunneled Dialysis Catheter?

A tunneled catheter is a dual-lumen central line placed under the skin and into a large vein. The subcutaneous tunnel helps reduce infection risk and stabilizes the catheter for months to years of use, unlike temporary catheters that are short-term only.

When Are Tunneled Catheters Used?

Exhausted or failed AV fistulas/grafts
Poor vein quality or vessel disease
Need for immediate but long-term dialysis access
Bridge access while waiting for fistula maturation
Limited life expectancy where surgery isn't ideal

The Placement Procedure

Minimally Invasive

Performed under local anesthesia and sedation using real-time ultrasound and fluoroscopy

Subcutaneous Tunnel

Reduces infection risk and improves comfort

Quick & Efficient

Takes about 30–60 minutes and is ready for dialysis immediately or within 24 hours

Benefits of Tunneled Catheters

Immediate Dialysis Access:

No waiting period like with fistulas or grafts

Low Profile, Comfortable:

Designed for longer-term wear with better stability

Option for Challenging Cases:

Ideal when other access options aren’t feasible

Why Choose Advanced Vascular & Wound Care?

Dr. Justin Parden has extensive experience placing tunneled dialysis catheters with excellent success rates and low complication rates. Our Prattville facility features advanced imaging equipment including ultrasound and fluoroscopy for optimal catheter placement.

We coordinate closely with nephrology teams and dialysis centers to ensure appropriate timing and preparation for catheter use. Our commitment to patient education includes comprehensive catheter care instruction and infection prevention protocols.

Caring for Your Catheter

We’ll provide clear instructions on:

Daily hygiene and exit site care

What activities to avoid (e.g., swimming, heavy lifting)

When to call about signs of infection, malfunction, or damage

Proper care can extend the life of your catheter and prevent complications like infections, clots, or malposition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can a tunneled catheter stay in place?

Tunneled catheters can function for months to years with proper care. Some patients use them for several years when other access options aren't available.
Can I shower with a tunneled catheter?

Yes, you can shower but must keep the exit site dry using a waterproof covering. Swimming and baths should be avoided due to infection risk.
What are the signs of catheter infection?

Signs include fever, chills, redness or drainage at the exit site, pain along the tunnel, and feeling unwell, especially after dialysis.
How often do tunneled catheters need to be replaced?

Replacement frequency varies, but many catheters function for 1-2 years or longer. Replacement is needed for infection, dysfunction, or mechanical problems.
Can I travel with a tunneled catheter?

Yes, but you'll need to arrange dialysis at your destination and carry catheter care supplies. Inform security about your catheter when flying.

What activities should I avoid with a tunneled catheter?

Avoid swimming, contact sports, heavy lifting that strains the chest/neck area, and any activities that might damage or dislodge the catheter.
Will the catheter be visible?

The exit site will be visible on your chest, and you may see the catheter under the skin in the tunnel area. Most clothing easily conceals the catheter.
How painful is catheter placement?

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and sedation, so discomfort during placement is minimal. Post-procedure soreness is typically mild.
Can my catheter be used immediately after placement?

Yes, unlike fistulas that need maturation time, tunneled catheters can typically be used for dialysis immediately or within 24 hours of placement.
What happens if my catheter stops working?

Contact your dialysis center or vascular surgeon immediately. Many catheter problems can be resolved with procedures like catheter exchange or declotting.

Schedule Your Catheter Consultation

Need long-term dialysis access? Call (334) 659-4717 to schedule your tunneled catheter consultation at Advanced Vascular & Wound Care—serving Prattville, Montgomery, and Central Alabama with expert vascular access care.

Call (334) 659-4717