National Cancer Institute National Cancer Institute
U.S. National Institutes of Health National Cancer Institute
Dictionary of Cancer Terms
Send to Printer
central venous access catheter (SEN-trul VEE-nus AK-ses KA-theh-ter)

 A tube surgically placed into a blood vessel for the purpose of giving intravenous fluid and drugs. It also can be used to obtain blood samples. This device avoids the need for separate needle insertions for each infusion or blood test. Examples of these devices include Hickman catheters, which require clamps to make sure the valve is closed, and Groshong catheters, which have a valve that opens as fluid is withdrawn or infused and remains closed when not in use.

Previous Definitions:central nervous system metastasis, central nervous system primitive neuroectodermal tumor, central nervous system prophylaxis, central nervous system sanctuary therapy, central nervous system tumor
Next Definitions:CEP-2563 dihydrochloride, CEP-701, cephalexin, cephalosporin, ceramide