Tunneled Catheter/Line Removal

What Is a Tunneled Catheter/Line Removal?

Your tunneled catheter/line is being removed because your treatment has ended, the catheter site is infected, a clot is present or the catheter is damaged.

Before Your Procedure

• If the catheter was placed more than 3 months ago, do not eat 8 hours or drink 4 hours before the procedure.
• If the catheter was placed less than 3 months ago, then no special prep is needed.
• If the catheter was placed more than 3 months ago, you may receive sedation and are unable to drive after the procedure. Please ensure you have transportation home.
• Certain medications cannot be taken prior to this procedure; your doctor will provide instructions if you need to adjust your medication.

During Your Procedure

You will receive numbing medication around the catheter site. If the catheter was placed more than 3 months ago, you may receive sedation medication. The head of the bed will be in an upright position as the catheter is removed. You may be given special breathing instructions during the removal of the catheter. You will feel a tugging sensation or pressure as the catheter is removed. 

After Your Procedure

• You might have some pain after the catheter is removed. Please use Tylenol or pain medicine prescribed by your provider. Avoid using aspirin, Motrin, Aleve or other anti-inflammatory medications as they can cause bleeding. Talk to your doctor if you still have pain after two days that is interfering with sleep or making it difficult to take care of yourself.
• Rest quietly for the remainder of the day. Keep your head elevated above your heart; do not lay flat for the next 3 hours. Avoid heavy lifting for 24 hours.
• Slight bleeding can occur. If blood soaks through your dressings or if you notice a lump under your skin at the site of the catheter, call Imaging Services or your provider. If you have severe bleeding or trouble breathing, call 911.
• Keep the bandage on the site for one day and then replace it with a water-proof adhesive bandage. Keep the site clean and dry until it is healed over. It is OK to shower with your bandage on. If there are signs of bleeding, hold pressure above the collarbone on that side.
• Notify your doctor if there are signs of infection at the site such as redness, swelling, drainage or fever.
• Follow-up care is a key part of your health. Be sure to make and go to all appointments and call your primary care provider if you have questions.