Central Venous Catheters (CVC’s)

An intravenous line (catheter) inserted into a major vein close to the heart. Can be inserted through the subclavian, jugular or femoral veins. Line access requires strict Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANNT).

Hickman ® line*

A brand of CVC, often inserted through the neck. It is tunnelled under the skin to allow formation of a cuff which secures the line and helps protect against infection. Exit site is usually the chest wall. May have a single or multiple lumens. For long term use, most often in chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition.

Broviac ® line*

As per Hickman line with smaller lumen sizes.

Portacath® Totally Implantable Venous Access System (TIVAS+)

A tunnelled device inserted under the skin, to enable access to the major veins through repeated needle puncture.

PICC line

An extended line that travels from a peripheral vein (usually in the arm) to the central veins. The line must be externally secured. For short to medium use, most often in chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition.

* Registered trademarks of C.R. Bard, Inc.
+ Registered trademark of Smiths Medical Asd, Inc.