Vascular access procedures
Intravenous treatments for a range of conditions
An effective, precise way of delivering drugs directly into the blood stream and taking repeated blood samples
What are vascular access procedures?
Vascular access refers to a group of procedures that use a catheter to deliver drugs intravenously over a period of time.
It includes chemotherapy, long-term intravenous feeding, blood transfusions and dialysis. If your consultant needs to take repeated blood samples, they may use the same method.
It includes chemotherapy, long-term intravenous feeding, blood transfusions and dialysis. If your consultant needs to take repeated blood samples, they may use the same method.
Need to know
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What happens during treatment? icon plus
You might be offered sedation and you'll be given a local anaesthetic to numb the affected area. Once you're comfortable, your consultant puts a small, hollow tube (catheter) into a vein in your neck, leg or arm and guides it into one of the main veins leading to your heart.
They often do an X-ray or ultrasound scan to check that the catheter is in the right place. When they're confident it is, they start your treatment. Exactly what happens next depends on the type of treatment you're having but your consultant will either deliver medication, nutrients or blood into the catheter or use it to take blood. -
How to prepare icon plus
Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultants will explain these to you and tell you how to prepare. They may ask you to stop eating and drinking a few hours before your procedure. -
After treatment icon plus
You should be able to go home the same day as your treatment. However, you won't be able to drive so please arrange for someone to take you home. You should rest until the following day and avoid anything strenuous for a few days as the area where the catheter was inserted is likely to be bruised and sore.
Depending on the type of treatment you're having, you might keep your catheter in for days, weeks or months. Your consultant will talk to you about how to take care of it.
Paying for medical treatment
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Our consultants
We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, including haematology, renal medicine and oncology, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Your primary consultant will discuss your vascular access options with you.
Your primary consultant will discuss your vascular access options with you.
Our locations in London and Birmingham
From complex medical treatments to diagnostic tests and minor procedures, we provide exceptional medical care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.