Broviac vs Hickman Catheter: Which is Right?

Broviac catheters and Hickman catheters, both types of central venous catheters, facilitate long-term medication delivery or dialysis, representing a critical tool in modern healthcare for patients requiring prolonged intravenous access. The insertion point of both the Broviac and Hickman lines is generally in the chest area, which is near the subclavian vein, or in the neck close to the jugular vein, providing direct access to the central circulatory system. Infection risks associated with central lines, including both Broviac and Hickman types, concern organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which provides guidelines on catheter maintenance. Considering the differences in cuff design and catheter material when choosing between Broviac vs Hickman catheter, clinicians must evaluate specific patient needs and anticipated treatment duration.

Central venous catheters (CVCs) and central venous access devices (CVADs) play a crucial role in modern medicine, providing reliable and long-term intravenous access for patients requiring extended therapies. Among the various types of CVCs, Broviac and Hickman catheters stand out as tunneled catheters designed for prolonged use.

This section will provide a foundational understanding of these catheters, exploring their definitions, specific characteristics, and primary purpose in facilitating various medical treatments.

Defining Central Venous Catheters and Access Devices

A central venous catheter (CVC) is a thin, flexible tube inserted into a large vein in the body, typically in the neck, chest, or groin. Its purpose is to allow direct access to the central circulatory system.

Central venous access devices (CVADs) is a broader term that encompasses all devices used to gain access to the central veins, including CVCs, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and implanted ports. These devices are essential when peripheral veins are unsuitable or when frequent or prolonged intravenous access is required.

Introducing Broviac and Hickman Catheters: Tunneled Central Lines

Broviac and Hickman catheters are specific types of CVCs categorized as tunneled catheters. This means that the catheter is inserted into a vein and then tunneled under the skin before exiting the body at a separate site.

This tunneling process helps to reduce the risk of infection by creating a longer, more tortuous path for bacteria to travel to reach the bloodstream. While both serve the same fundamental purpose, subtle differences in size and design may influence the choice between a Broviac and a Hickman catheter, depending on the patient's specific needs.

Primary Purpose: Long-Term Intravenous Access

The primary purpose of Broviac and Hickman catheters is to facilitate long-term, reliable intravenous access. This is particularly important for patients who require frequent or continuous administration of medications, fluids, or nutrients over an extended period.

Conditions that often necessitate the use of these catheters include:

• Chemotherapy
• Bone marrow transplantation
• Total parenteral nutrition (TPN)
• Long-term antibiotic therapy

By providing consistent and dependable vascular access, Broviac and Hickman catheters improve the quality of life for patients undergoing these treatments, minimizing the need for repeated peripheral venipunctures and reducing the risk of vein damage. Their significance lies in their ability to deliver essential therapies safely and effectively, contributing to improved patient outcomes in diverse medical scenarios.

Indications and Common Uses: When Are Broviac and Hickman Catheters Necessary?

Central venous catheters (CVCs) and central venous access devices (CVADs) play a crucial role in modern medicine, providing reliable and long-term intravenous access for patients requiring extended therapies. Among the various types of CVCs, Broviac and Hickman catheters stand out as tunneled catheters designed for prolonged use.

This section will delve into the specific medical scenarios where these catheters become essential, exploring their applications in chemotherapy, bone marrow transplantation, parenteral nutrition, and long-term medication administration. Furthermore, it will highlight their frequent use in the pediatric population and touch upon the roles of the specialists involved in these cases.

Chemotherapy Administration

Broviac and Hickman catheters are frequently employed in the administration of chemotherapy. These catheters provide reliable vascular access for delivering potent chemotherapy drugs directly into the bloodstream.

The repeated venipunctures associated with traditional intravenous access can be avoided, minimizing patient discomfort and preserving peripheral veins. This is particularly crucial for patients undergoing prolonged or cyclical chemotherapy regimens.

Oncologists, specializing in cancer treatment, often oversee the decision to utilize these catheters, ensuring the safe and effective delivery of chemotherapy agents.

Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT)

Bone marrow transplantation, a complex and intensive procedure, often necessitates the use of Broviac or Hickman catheters. These catheters are vital for several reasons.

First, they allow for the infusion of stem cells into the recipient's bloodstream. Second, they provide access for the administration of supportive medications, such as antibiotics and antivirals.

Finally, they enable frequent blood sampling necessary to monitor the patient's progress post-transplant. Hematologists, who specialize in blood disorders and transplantation, play a key role in managing patients with these catheters during the BMT process.

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)

Patients who are unable to receive adequate nutrition through oral or enteral routes often require total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Broviac and Hickman catheters offer a reliable route for administering TPN, which contains essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream.

This is especially critical for individuals with severe gastrointestinal disorders, malabsorption syndromes, or those recovering from major surgeries. The stable and secure access provided by these catheters ensures consistent nutrient delivery, supporting the patient's nutritional needs over an extended period.

Long-Term Intravenous Medication and Antibiotic Administration

Certain medical conditions necessitate long-term intravenous medication or antibiotic administration. Broviac and Hickman catheters provide a convenient and safe method for delivering these therapies.

Examples include patients with chronic infections requiring prolonged antibiotic courses, or those with immune deficiencies needing regular immunoglobulin infusions. These catheters eliminate the need for repeated peripheral IV insertions, improving patient comfort and reducing the risk of vein damage.

Prevalence in Pediatric Patients

Broviac and Hickman catheters are frequently used in pediatric patients, particularly those undergoing cancer treatment or requiring long-term nutritional support. The smaller size and fragility of children's veins make repeated peripheral IV access challenging and potentially traumatic.

Pediatric oncologists, pediatric hematologists, and general pediatricians often collaborate to determine the need for these catheters. They are used to administer chemotherapy, deliver TPN, and provide other essential medications.

The use of these catheters in children necessitates specialized care and monitoring due to the increased risk of complications in this population. Meticulous attention to catheter maintenance and infection prevention is paramount to ensuring the safety and well-being of pediatric patients.

Catheter Placement: A Detailed Look at the Insertion Procedure

After the decision to proceed with a Broviac or Hickman catheter is made, the next critical step involves the precise and safe placement of the catheter. This procedure requires careful planning, skilled healthcare professionals, and advanced techniques to ensure optimal function and minimize potential complications.

Healthcare Professionals Involved

The placement of Broviac and Hickman catheters is typically performed by either a Surgical Specialist or an Interventional Radiologist.

Surgeons may opt for an open surgical approach, particularly in complex cases or when other surgical procedures are being performed simultaneously.

Interventional Radiologists, on the other hand, utilize minimally invasive techniques, guiding the catheter into place using imaging technology.

Both specialists possess the expertise to navigate the venous system and accurately position the catheter, requiring thorough knowledge of anatomy and sterile technique.

Common Insertion Sites

The choice of insertion site is a crucial decision, influenced by factors such as patient anatomy, medical history, and the anticipated duration of catheter use.

The Subclavian Vein and Jugular Vein (both Internal and External) are among the most common access points.

The Subclavian Vein offers a relatively straight path to the superior vena cava (SVC), but carries a slightly higher risk of pneumothorax during insertion.

The Internal Jugular Vein provides excellent visualization via ultrasound and is often preferred due to its accessibility.

The External Jugular Vein is used less frequently, typically when the other sites are unavailable.

The ultimate choice of insertion site is made by the performing physician based on individual patient needs and considerations.

The Role of Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging has revolutionized catheter placement, providing real-time visualization of the targeted vein and surrounding structures.

This technology allows the physician to accurately identify the vein's location, assess its patency, and guide the insertion needle with precision.

Ultrasound guidance significantly reduces the risk of complications such as arterial puncture and hematoma formation, improving patient safety and procedure success rates.

The Insertion Process: Guidewires and Introducer Needles

The Seldinger technique, utilizing a guidewire and introducer needle, is the standard approach for catheter insertion.

First, the target vein is accessed using a hollow introducer needle under ultrasound guidance.

A flexible guidewire is then advanced through the needle into the vein, providing a secure track for subsequent catheter placement.

The introducer needle is removed, and a dilator is advanced over the guidewire to enlarge the insertion site.

Finally, the Broviac or Hickman catheter is carefully threaded over the guidewire into the vein, with the guidewire then removed.

This technique allows for smooth and controlled catheter insertion, minimizing trauma to the vessel wall.

The Subcutaneous Tunnel: Minimizing Infection Risk

A key feature of Broviac and Hickman catheters is the subcutaneous tunnel, which plays a vital role in reducing the risk of infection.

After the catheter is inserted into the vein, it is routed through a tunnel created beneath the skin, exiting at a separate site on the chest wall.

This tunnel creates a physical barrier, increasing the distance between the catheter's entry point into the vein and the external environment.

The subcutaneous tunnel also allows for the formation of a fibrous cuff around the catheter, providing further protection against bacterial migration and dislodgement.

Careful attention to sterile technique during the creation of the subcutaneous tunnel is essential for minimizing the risk of infection and ensuring long-term catheter patency.

Catheter Structure and Function: A Closer Look at the Device

After the decision to proceed with a Broviac or Hickman catheter is made, the next critical aspect is understanding the device itself. This involves examining its physical construction, the materials used, and the specific functional elements that contribute to its efficacy and safety. A thorough understanding of these features is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Physical Structure and Materials

Broviac and Hickman catheters are typically constructed from biocompatible materials such as silicone or polyurethane. These materials are chosen for their flexibility, durability, and resistance to degradation within the body. Silicone is particularly known for its inertness, reducing the risk of adverse reactions or thrombus formation.

The catheter consists of a long, thin, flexible tube with one or more lumens. The number of lumens determines the number of medications or fluids that can be administered simultaneously. Each lumen extends from the proximal end (outside the body) to the distal end (within the vein).

The external portion of the catheter, exiting the skin, includes a cuff, usually made of Dacron felt. This cuff is crucial as it promotes tissue ingrowth, creating a biological seal that anchors the catheter and provides a barrier against infection. The cuff's integration with surrounding tissue is essential for the long-term stability of the catheter.

The Critical Role of the Exit Site

The exit site, where the catheter emerges from the skin, is a primary entry point for potential infections. Meticulous care of the exit site is paramount to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). Proper cleansing techniques, using antiseptic solutions like chlorhexidine, are essential.

The exit site should be regularly inspected for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage. Patients and caregivers must be thoroughly trained on proper hygiene practices. The surrounding skin should be kept clean and dry to minimize bacterial colonization.

Furthermore, appropriate dressings should be applied and changed according to established protocols. The type of dressing used (e.g., transparent semipermeable dressings) can vary depending on patient-specific factors and institutional guidelines. The goal remains consistent: to create a sterile barrier against external contaminants.

Optimal Catheter Tip Placement in the Superior Vena Cava (SVC)

Accurate placement of the catheter tip is vital for optimal function and to minimize the risk of complications. Ideally, the distal tip should reside within the superior vena cava (SVC), near its junction with the right atrium. This location allows for rapid dilution of infused medications, reducing the risk of vessel irritation or thrombosis.

Radiographic imaging, such as chest X-rays or fluoroscopy, is routinely used to confirm proper catheter tip placement. These imaging modalities allow healthcare providers to visualize the catheter's trajectory and ensure that the tip is correctly positioned.

Suboptimal tip placement, such as positioning the tip too far into the right atrium or within a smaller vein, can increase the risk of complications. Malposition can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, vessel damage, or increased risk of thrombosis. Therefore, verification of catheter tip placement is a crucial step following insertion.

Catheter Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Longevity and Preventing Complications

After the decision to proceed with a Broviac or Hickman catheter is made, the next critical aspect is understanding the device itself. This involves examining its physical construction, the materials used, and the specific functional elements that contribute to its efficacy and safety. A crucial component of ensuring the long-term success of Broviac and Hickman catheters lies in diligent maintenance and care. These procedures are paramount in preventing complications and maximizing the catheter's lifespan.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Healthcare Team

The responsibility for catheter maintenance isn't solely placed on one individual; rather, it's a collaborative effort. Nurses, especially those specializing in oncology and pediatrics, play a central role.

Their expertise is critical in monitoring the catheter site, administering flushes, and educating patients and their families.

Catheter care teams, often comprised of specialized nurses and physicians, offer an additional layer of support, providing expert guidance and intervention when needed. The collaborative nature of catheter maintenance helps ensure comprehensive and proactive care.

Routine Flushing Procedures: Maintaining Catheter Patency

One of the most critical aspects of catheter maintenance is regular flushing. This prevents occlusion by clearing the catheter lumen of blood and debris.

Heparin flush and saline flush are two commonly used solutions, each with its own advantages. Heparin, an anticoagulant, helps prevent clot formation, whereas saline offers a lower-risk alternative, particularly in patients with heparin sensitivities.

The choice of flushing solution and the frequency of flushing are determined by institutional protocols and individual patient needs. Adherence to these flushing protocols is crucial in maintaining catheter patency and preventing complications.

Dressing Changes and Site Care: Minimizing Infection Risk

The catheter exit site serves as a potential entry point for infection. Regular dressing changes and meticulous site care are essential to minimize this risk.

These procedures involve cleaning the skin around the catheter exit site with antiseptic solutions, such as chlorhexidine, and applying a sterile dressing.

Specific protocols guide the frequency and technique of dressing changes, taking into account factors like the type of dressing used and the patient's condition. Vigilant site care helps maintain a clean and protected environment, reducing the likelihood of catheter-related infections.

Catheter Securement Devices: Preventing Dislodgement

Accidental dislodgement of a Broviac or Hickman catheter can have serious consequences, including bleeding, infection, and loss of venous access. Catheter securement devices are designed to prevent such occurrences.

These devices, which range from adhesive anchors to subcutaneous securement systems, stabilize the catheter and minimize movement at the exit site.

Proper application and maintenance of securement devices are vital. Healthcare providers should regularly assess the securement device to ensure it remains intact and functional, further safeguarding against catheter dislodgement.

Potential Complications: Risks Associated with Catheters

After diligent maintenance and care, understanding the potential complications associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters is paramount. While these catheters offer invaluable benefits, a comprehensive awareness of potential risks is crucial for timely intervention and optimized patient outcomes. This section provides a detailed overview of the most significant complications, empowering healthcare providers and patients to recognize and address them effectively.

Infections: A Primary Concern

Catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) represent a major concern with long-term central venous catheters. CRBSIs can lead to significant morbidity, increased hospital stays, and, in severe cases, mortality. Understanding the sources and preventative measures is therefore critical.

Mechanisms and Risk Factors

Infections typically arise from the migration of microorganisms along the catheter tract or through the contamination of the catheter hub.

Risk factors include:

• Frequent catheter manipulation.
• Compromised immune systems.
• Prolonged catheter dwell time.

Prevention Strategies

Preventative strategies are multi-faceted and emphasize meticulous technique:

• Adhering to strict aseptic protocols during insertion and maintenance.
• Utilizing antimicrobial-impregnated catheters.
• Implementing standardized catheter care bundles.

Recognition and Management

Early recognition of infection is crucial. Signs and symptoms include:

• Fever.
• Chills.
• Erythema at the insertion site.

Blood cultures should be promptly obtained, and appropriate antibiotic therapy initiated. Catheter removal may be necessary in refractory cases or with certain pathogens.

Thrombosis: The Threat of Blood Clots

Venous thrombosis, the formation of blood clots within the veins, is another significant complication associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters. These clots can partially or completely obstruct the vessel, leading to a range of adverse effects.

Pathophysiology and Predisposing Factors

The presence of a foreign object (the catheter) within the vein can trigger the coagulation cascade, leading to thrombus formation.

Predisposing factors include:

• Underlying hypercoagulable states.
• Venous stasis.
• Catheter-induced endothelial damage.

Detection and Treatment

Suspicion of thrombosis should arise with symptoms such as:

• Extremity swelling.
• Pain.
• Venous distension.

Diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound or venography, can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options include:

• Anticoagulation therapy.
• Thrombolysis.
• In some cases, catheter removal.

Occlusion: Maintaining Patency

Catheter occlusion, the blockage of the catheter lumen, can significantly impede the delivery of medications and nutrients.

Causes of Occlusion

Occlusions can result from:

• Thrombus formation within the catheter.
• Precipitation of medications.
• Lipid deposits.

Strategies for Prevention and Management

Preventive measures include:

• Regular flushing of the catheter with appropriate solutions (e.g., heparin or saline).
• Careful medication compatibility checks.

If occlusion occurs, thrombolytic agents (e.g., alteplase) can be used to restore patency.

Pneumothorax and Air Embolism: Insertion-Related Risks

Pneumothorax (air in the pleural space) and air embolism are potential complications during catheter insertion, although less common than infection or thrombosis.

Mechanisms and Consequences

Pneumothorax can occur if the lung is inadvertently punctured during subclavian vein cannulation. Air embolism can result from the introduction of air into the venous system.

Prevention and Response

Careful technique, guided by ultrasound, is crucial for preventing these complications. Should they occur, immediate intervention is required.

• Pneumothorax may necessitate chest tube placement.
• Air embolism requires specific resuscitative measures.

Prevention and Management of Complications: Minimizing Risks and Ensuring Safety

After diligent maintenance and care, understanding the potential complications associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters is paramount. While these catheters offer invaluable benefits, a comprehensive awareness of potential risks is crucial for timely intervention and optimized patient outcomes. The strategies for prevention and management are multifaceted, relying on strict adherence to established guidelines and proactive clinical practices.

This section delves into these essential strategies, emphasizing the proactive measures necessary to minimize risks and ensure the safety of patients relying on these vital access devices.

Adherence to CDC Guidelines

Adherence to guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is fundamental in preventing complications associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters. These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for catheter insertion, maintenance, and management.

Following these recommendations diligently is crucial for minimizing the risk of infection and other adverse events. The CDC's guidelines serve as a cornerstone for best practices in catheter care.

Prevention and Management Strategies for Specific Complications

Beyond general adherence to CDC guidelines, specific strategies are employed to prevent and manage individual complications that may arise.

These tailored approaches address the unique challenges posed by each potential adverse event, allowing for more targeted and effective intervention.

Preventing Catheter-Related Bloodstream Infections (CRBSI)

CRBSI represents a significant risk for patients with central venous catheters. Strategies to mitigate this risk include:

• Antimicrobial Catheters: The use of catheters impregnated with antimicrobial agents, such as chlorhexidine and silver sulfadiazine, can reduce the incidence of CRBSI. These catheters provide a local antimicrobial effect, inhibiting the growth of microorganisms on the catheter surface.

• Antimicrobial Lock Solutions: These solutions are instilled into the catheter lumen between uses. They provide a sustained antimicrobial effect, preventing biofilm formation and subsequent infection. Common antimicrobial lock solutions include chlorhexidine and minocycline-EDTA.

• Strict Aseptic Technique: Adhering to rigorous aseptic technique during catheter insertion, maintenance, and access is paramount. This includes thorough hand hygiene, the use of sterile gloves and drapes, and proper skin antisepsis with chlorhexidine-based solutions.

Managing Thrombosis

Thrombosis, or blood clot formation, is another potential complication associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters.

Prevention and management strategies include:

• Anticoagulation Therapy: Prophylactic anticoagulation therapy, such as low-dose warfarin or low-molecular-weight heparin, may be considered in patients at high risk of thrombosis.

• Catheter Flushing Protocols: Regular catheter flushing with heparinized saline helps maintain catheter patency and prevent clot formation.

• Thrombolytic Agents: In cases of confirmed catheter-related thrombosis, thrombolytic agents, such as alteplase, may be used to dissolve the clot and restore catheter function.

Addressing Catheter Occlusion

Catheter occlusion, or blockage, can impede the delivery of medications and fluids.

Strategies for preventing and managing occlusion include:

• Positive Pressure Flushing: Using a positive pressure flushing technique ensures that the catheter lumen remains clear and prevents blood reflux.

• Lock Solutions: Instilling lock solutions, such as heparin or sodium citrate, into the catheter lumen between uses helps prevent clot formation and maintains catheter patency.

• Mechanical Declotting Devices: In cases of persistent occlusion, mechanical declotting devices may be used to physically remove the blockage and restore catheter function.

Minimizing Insertion-Related Risks

Insertion-related complications, such as pneumothorax and air embolism, can occur during catheter placement. To minimize these risks:

• Ultrasound Guidance: Using ultrasound guidance during catheter insertion helps visualize the target vessel and surrounding structures, reducing the risk of accidental puncture or injury.

• Proper Technique: Adhering to proper insertion technique, including careful needle insertion and guidewire advancement, minimizes the risk of pneumothorax and other complications.

• Air Embolism Precautions: Taking precautions to prevent air embolism, such as ensuring that all connections are tight and using a Luer-Lok system, is crucial.

By implementing these comprehensive prevention and management strategies, healthcare professionals can significantly reduce the risk of complications associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters, thereby ensuring the safety and well-being of patients relying on these vital access devices.

Patient Education and Informed Consent: Empowering Patients Through Knowledge

After diligent maintenance and care, understanding the potential complications associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters is paramount. While these catheters offer invaluable benefits, a comprehensive awareness of potential risks is crucial for timely intervention and overall patient well-being. Therefore, a cornerstone of responsible catheter management lies in robust patient education and meticulously obtained informed consent.

This section delves into the critical elements of empowering patients through knowledge, ensuring they actively participate in their care journey with a full understanding of the benefits, risks, and responsibilities associated with Broviac and Hickman catheters.

The Indispensable Role of Patient Education

Comprehensive patient education is not merely a procedural formality; it is an ethical imperative and a vital component of successful catheter management. Empowering patients with knowledge about their Broviac or Hickman catheter instills confidence, fosters proactive self-care, and significantly reduces the likelihood of complications.

The education should be tailored to the patient's individual comprehension level and language, ensuring clarity and understanding of all key aspects.

Key Topics Covered in Patient Education

• Catheter Care Fundamentals: Patients must be thoroughly instructed on the proper techniques for daily catheter care, including flushing protocols, dressing changes, and exit site inspection. The importance of maintaining a clean and dry exit site to minimize infection risk should be emphasized.

• Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Complications: Education must equip patients with the ability to identify early warning signs of potential complications, such as redness, swelling, pain at the insertion site, fever, chills, or catheter occlusion. They should be instructed on when and how to promptly report any concerning symptoms to their healthcare team.

• Activity Restrictions and Precautions: Patients need clear guidance on any necessary activity restrictions or precautions to prevent catheter damage or dislodgement. This might include avoiding strenuous activities, contact sports, or activities that could put excessive pressure on the catheter site.

• Emergency Contact Information: Providing patients with readily accessible contact information for their healthcare team, including after-hours or emergency contact numbers, is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical assistance when needed.

Informed Consent: A Foundation of Ethical Practice

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical principle that underscores a patient's right to make autonomous decisions about their medical care. Before the placement of a Broviac or Hickman catheter, it is imperative that patients receive comprehensive information about the procedure, its potential benefits, and associated risks.

This ensures they can make a truly informed decision about whether to proceed.

Elements of Valid Informed Consent

• Disclosure of Relevant Information: Patients must be provided with a clear and concise explanation of the catheter placement procedure, including the reasons for its necessity, the potential benefits it offers, and the reasonably foreseeable risks and complications associated with its use. This discussion should include alternative treatment options, if available.

• Assessment of Patient Understanding: The healthcare provider has a responsibility to ensure that the patient fully understands the information presented. This can be achieved through open dialogue, encouraging questions, and utilizing visual aids or other educational resources to reinforce comprehension.

• Voluntariness of Decision: The patient's decision to proceed with catheter placement must be entirely voluntary, free from coercion or undue influence. They should be given ample time to consider the information provided and seek input from family members or other trusted advisors if desired.

• Documentation of Consent: The informed consent process must be thoroughly documented in the patient's medical record, including a written consent form signed by the patient and the healthcare provider. This documentation serves as evidence that the patient was appropriately informed and voluntarily consented to the procedure.

Empowering Patients for Optimal Outcomes

By prioritizing comprehensive patient education and diligently obtaining informed consent, healthcare professionals can empower patients to become active participants in their own care. This collaborative approach fosters trust, enhances adherence to treatment protocols, and ultimately contributes to improved outcomes and a higher quality of life for individuals requiring Broviac or Hickman catheters.

Ultimately, the best choice between a Broviac vs Hickman catheter really boils down to your individual needs and what your doctor recommends. Don't hesitate to ask them plenty of questions to figure out which catheter type is the right fit for you!