What is a Permacath?
A Permacath (tunneled hemodialysis catheter) is a soft, flexible tube placed into a large vein—usually in the neck (internal jugular vein) or sometimes the femoral vein—to provide temporary or long-term access for hemodialysis, medication administration, and apheresis.
The catheter has two lumens for efficient blood flow and a protective cuff that reduces infection risk and keeps the catheter securely in place.
Permacath Insertion
What is Permacath Insertion?
Permacath insertion is a minimally invasive catheterization procedure performed to establish immediate dialysis access when permanent access (AV fistula) is not yet available.
Procedure Overview
| Procedure Name | Permacath Insertion |
|---|---|
| Type | Catheterization |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia with mild sedation |
| Duration | ~45 minutes |
| Hospital Stay | Same-day discharge |
| Use | Immediate dialysis access |
Pre-Procedure Care
Patient kept NBM for 5–6 hours
Blood tests, physical examination, and Doppler scan
Inform doctor about medications, allergies, or infections
During the Procedure
Local anesthesia is administered
A vein is accessed under image guidance
The catheter is tunneled under the skin and positioned near the heart
A sterile dressing is applied
After the Procedure
Chest X-ray to confirm placement
Permacath is ready for immediate use
Minimal recovery time
Permacath Removal
What is Permacath Removal?
Permacath removal is performed once dialysis access is no longer needed or when a permanent access (AV fistula or graft) is functioning well, or if complications such as infection occur.
Procedure Overview
| Procedure Name | Permacath Removal |
|---|---|
| Type | Catheter removal |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
| Duration | 15–30 minutes |
| Hospital Stay | Same-day discharge |
During the Removal Procedure
Local anesthesia is applied
The cuff is gently released from surrounding tissue
The catheter is safely removed
Pressure dressing is applied to prevent bleeding
After Removal Care
Keep the site clean and dry
Avoid heavy lifting for 24–48 hours
Monitor for bleeding, pain, or infection
Follow-up as advised by the doctor
Benefits of Permacath Procedures at Sarkar Hospital, Agra
✔ Experienced nephrology & vascular care team
✔ Image-guided, minimally invasive techniques
✔ Strict infection-control protocols
✔ Faster recovery with minimal discomfort
✔ Comprehensive dialysis support services