Vascular Access

A close-up view of a patient's hand resting on a hospital bed, connected to an IV line. The hand is adorned in a colorful hospital gown, emphasizing a clinical setting. The background is softly blurred, suggesting a medical environment.

Your Educational Resource on Vascular Access

This pages are dedicated to helping patients, families, and caregivers better understand vascular access - what it is, why it’s sometimes necessary, and the different types available.

We explain the basics of the vascular system and introduce two common vascular access devices: port catheters and PICC lines.

Our goal is to provide clear, easy-to-understand information to support awareness and informed conversations with healthcare providers.

An anatomical illustration shows a transparent human torso highlighting the lungs and associated blood vessels. The detailed network of red and blue veins and arteries illustrates the respiratory and circulatory systems, set against a solid blue background.

The Vascular System and Its Anatomy

The vascular system, also called the circulatory system, plays a vital role in keeping your body functioning. It transports oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products throughout the body, making its health essential for your overall well-being.

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A close-up of a person's outstretched hand with a medical adhesive bandage on the wrist. The bandage has a small blue connector attached, indicating intravenous access. The background is a solid dark blue color.

What is Vascular Access?

Sometimes, healthcare providers need to deliver medications, fluids or treatments directly into your bloodstream. For this purpose, a so called vascular access is established.

Learn about various types of vascular access, including their differences, benefits, and limitations.

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Illustration of blood cells flowing through a blood vessel. The image includes numerous red blood cells and a few white blood cells, depicting the structure and function of blood circulation within the human body. The background is a gradient of blue.

Vascular Access in Oncology

Find out, why vascular access is so important for cancer care and discover the most common types used in oncology treatments.

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Illustration of a human torso highlighting the heart and major blood vessels. The heart is depicted in pink, with blue and red lines representing arteries and veins, illustrating the circulatory system. The background is a solid dark color.

Port Systems

Port systems play a vital role in long-term intravenous treatments. Learn about the different types of port systems, how they work, their design, implantation procedures, and potential risks.

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A person wearing a blue and white striped shirt is revealing a small, circular scar on their chest. The individual is gently pulling the shirt open to display the scar, which appears to be healed. The background is blurred, focusing on the person's upper body.

Everyday Life with a Port

Find out how a port system fits into everyday life, how long it can remain implanted, and why carrying an Implant Card is so important for your safety and peace of mind.

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A healthcare worker with blue gloves is administering medication through a syringe into an IV port connected to a patient's chest. The patient is wearing a gray shirt, and an adhesive patch is placed near the IV site.

Port System Care

Proper care of your port is an essential requirement for it to work effectively and remain free from infections. Learn more about how long a port needle can stay in place, whether you need to wear a dressing, and the steps for maintaining your port system.

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A close-up view of a person's forearm with a medical device secured by adhesive. The device includes a clear tube connected to a purple connector, indicating intravenous access. A gloved hand is also visible, suggesting a healthcare setting.

Understanding the PICC

A Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter, or PICC line, is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a vein in your arm and guided to larger veins near your heart. Learn more about what they are, how they’re used, the insertion process, and the benefits they offer.

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A healthcare professional holds a syringe filled with medication, preparing to administer it through a clear IV line to a patient lying in a hospital bed. The patient appears calm and attentive.

PICC Line Care

A PICC line is an essential tool for delivering medications, fluids, or nutrients directly into the bloodstream. While it offers significant benefits, proper care and maintenance are crucial to allow effective treatment and prevent complications like infections or blockages.

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A close-up of a medical device attached to a person's arm. The device includes a clear connector with a purple part and is secured with a bandage. This setup is often used for intravenous treatments or blood draws.

PICC Line: How Long Can It Stay Implanted?

What is the typical lifespan of a PICC line, what are possible complications, and how can proper care ensure its effectiveness?

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Please note that the information within this website is not intended for self-diagnosis. It is in no way a substitute for a medical diagnosis and advice.

Image sources:

Teaser Port Care: KI