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Diagnosis / Long Term Venous Access

When patients have an ongoing need for access into a blood vessel, a vascular access procedure may be indicated. A vascular access procedure involves the insertion of a small flexible tube, called a catheter. The catheter provides an effective method of drawing blood or delivering medications, blood products, or nutrition into a patient’s bloodstream over a period of weeks, months or even years.

Why Would my Doctor Recommend a Vascular Access Procedure?

An intravenous (IV) line is effective for short-term use, but is not suitable for long-term use. When an IV line is necessary for a longer period of time and/or a more secure venous access is necessary, a special catheter, called a central venous catheter, or a similar device can be used. This catheter can be put in place temporarily (days) or long-term (weeks or years), allowing for easy and repeated access over the necessary period of time without the need for repeat puncture so the patient.

Who is a Candidate for Vascular Access?

Vascular access procedures are ideal for patients with kidney disease or cancer. The placement of a vascular access device helps patients achieve painless, repeated access to the blood stream which may be required for many years.

Common reasons your physician may recommend a vascular access procedure:

  • You are undergoing hemodialysis (a procedure where blood is taken out of the body; waste and excess fluid are removed, and blood is returned to the body) because your kidneys are not functioning properly.
  • You are receiving chemotherapy or other cancer treatment.
  • You need antibiotics administered intravenously.
  • You cannot swallow safely but need medications, feeding, or nutritional support.
  • You require repeated blood draws.

IVC’s Treatments for Vascular Access

At IVC, we offer several outpatient vascular access procedures including peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), infusion ports, and central venous catheters.

Call IVC today at 503-612-0498 to schedule an appointment for a consultation to learn more about your options. You can also read our brochure on Port-A-Cath.

* This information about Long Term Venous Access was reviewed by Dr. Jason R. Bauer. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the form below.

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We are announcing that Interventional and Vascular Consultants will be closing as of March 10, 2023.

We would like to thank you for the trust you have given us over the years, participating in your healthcare needs has been a privilege.

To assist in a smooth transition to a new provider, you may access your records from your MyHealth account or request a copy of medical records by clicking the link below and completing the Release of Information form.

Medical Records Release Form

Please know that we have greatly valued our relationship with you and wish you the best.

Sincerely,

Jason Bauer, MD RVT
Michael Pfister, MD RVT

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