The two most common types of external central line is the Hickman (refers to the company that makes them). Central lines are almost always surgically implanted while you are under general anesthesia. First, a small incision is made in the area under your collarbone. One end of the catheter is fed into a large vein (the superior vena cava) leading directly into your heart.

The other end of the catheter is "tunneled" under your skin for a short distance, where it exits through another small incision at a spot near your breastbone. The catheter branches out into one or more smaller tubes called lumens that hang on the outside of your body. A sterile dressing covers the exit site at all times.

All chemotherapy drugs, transfusions, and fluids are infused through these lumens or "ports". Depending on your treatment plan, you may have several different types of fluids or meds being infused at the same time through different ports. Sometimes, if the drugs are compatible, you might have two different drugs going through the same lumen at the same time.

How Do I Take Care of My Line?

External lines are more difficult to take care of than under-the-skin ports. Special care must be taken while bathing to avoid getting the exit site wet and it may be recommended that you don't go swimming.

A Hickman must always have a sterile dressing covering it. Check with your medical team to learn their requirements about changing the dressing. Most hospitals will have a special teaching sheet to show you how to change your dressing. You can always have a nurse or your parent do it for you, but many teens prefer to do it themselves. It's usually more convenient and much more private.

Your lines need be flushed daily to prevent clotting and the caps on the ends of the line need to be changed regularly. Your individual situation will determine how often. Check with your medical team about how to specifically care for your central line.

You will more fully discuss how to care for your line with your medical team.