Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Tunneled Intraperitoneal Catheter

Summary

The removal of a tunneled intraperitoneal catheter is a medical procedure designed to take out a catheter that has been surgically placed in the abdominal area. This catheter is typically used for delivering medications or draining fluids.

Purpose

The procedure is carried out to remove the catheter when it is no longer needed, has become infected, or is malfunctioning. The goal is to prevent infection, ensure patient comfort, and resolve any complications associated with the catheter.

Indications

• Infection at the catheter site
• Catheter malfunction or blockage
• Resolution of the underlying condition (e.g., no longer needing medication or fluid drainage)
• Catheter-related pain or discomfort

Preparation

• Fasting for several hours prior, if sedation is required
• Medication adjustments as instructed by the healthcare provider
• Pre-procedure screening tests such as blood work or imaging to assess the catheter's condition

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The patient is positioned comfortably, and the catheter site is cleaned and sterilized.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area. Sedation may be used if necessary.
3. Incision: A small incision is made at the catheter site.
4. Catheter Removal: The catheter is gently freed from any adhesions and carefully extracted.
5. Closure: The incision site is closed with sutures or adhesive strips and covered with a sterile dressing.
6. Post-Procedure Care: The site is cleaned again, and the patient is monitored for any immediate complications.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The removal is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeons or Interventional radiologists
• Nurses
• Anesthesiologists (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the removal site
• Bleeding
• Pain at the incision site
• Damage to surrounding tissues or organs (rare)
• Recurrence of the underlying condition requiring the catheter

Benefits

• Resolves catheter-related complications such as infection or malfunction.
• Improves comfort and reduces pain or discomfort related to the catheter.
• Prevents future infections.

Recovery

• Keep the incision site clean and dry.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Activity restrictions as advised, generally for a few days.
• Pain management with prescribed or over-the-counter medications.

Alternatives

• Continuing with the catheter and addressing issues conservatively.
• Replacing the catheter instead of removing it, if needed for ongoing treatment.

Pros:

• Removal eliminates infection risk.
• Improves patient comfort immediately.

Cons:

• Another catheter may need to be placed later.
• Conservative treatment may require prolonged medication use.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort during local anesthesia administration.
• Possible mild pain or tenderness at the incision site post-procedure.
• Instructions for wound care and activity limitations will be provided.
• Pain relief and comfort measures will be administered as needed.