Hickman Catheter Use for Long-Term Vascular Access in a Preclinical Swine Model

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are invaluable devices in large animal research as they facilitate a wide range of medical applications, including blood monitoring and reliable intravenous fluid and drug administration. Specifically, the tunneled multi-lumen Hickman catheter (HC) is commonly used in swine models due to its lower extrication and complication rates. Despite fewer complications relative to other CVCs, HC-related morbidity presents a significant challenge, as it can significantly delay or otherwise negatively impact ongoing studies. The proper insertion and maintenance of HCs is paramount in preventing these complications, but there is no consensus on best practices. The purpose of this protocol is to comprehensively describe an approach for the insertion and maintenance of a tunneled HC in swine that mitigates HC-related complications and morbidity. The use of these techniques in >100 swine has resulted in complication-free patent lines up to 8 months and no catheter-related mortality or infection of the ventral surgical site. This protocol offers a method to optimize the lifespan of the HC and guidance for approaching issues during use.