Central venous access in oncology patients: the "peel-away" sheath for rapid insertion

A safe, fluoroscopically controlled method of rapid silastic catheter introduction in oncology patients provides long-term access to a high blood flow area near the right atrium. A "peel-away" disposable sheath and introducer have been adapted for the rapid introduction of the catheter. Benefits of the use of this technique are that (1) it can be easily adapted from the widely known technique of central venous line placement, (2) catheter position is easily confirmed by fluoroscopy, and (3) the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, minimizing anesthetic risks and expense.