CENTRAL LINE / CATHETER (CENTRAL VENOUS ACCESS CATHETER) INSERTION

Why it is necessary:

To identify the etiology of a lump or mass, or other abnormal condition in the body.

How it performed:

• Doctor inserts a small needle, guided by USG, CT or other imaging techniques, into the abnormal area without causing any harm into adjacent vital structure.
• A sample of tissue is removed and given to a pathologist, who looks it under a microscope to determine what the abnormality is — for example, cancer, a noncancerous tumour, infection, or inflammation.

What are the benefits:

• Precise location of abnormality under imaging guidance
• Chances of positive results increased significantly
• Minimal damage to adjacent structure

What are the risks:

• Bleeding (2-3 %, in some location even less)
• Pneumothorax (in lung biopsy, 2-3 %)