Which of the following is a disadvantage of external tunneled catheters?

Which of the following is a disadvantage of external tunneled catheters?

• A. Can remain for multiple years
• B. Lower risk of infection
• C. More costly when surgically placed
• D. Minimal maintenance required

Answer: (C)

External tunneled catheters are designed for long-term use and offer several advantages, but they do come with some drawbacks. One disadvantage is that they can be more costly when surgically placed. This higher expense is attributed to the surgical intervention required for insertion and potential need for specialized equipment and follow-up care. The placement of these catheters involves a surgical procedure that typically requires anesthesia and a sterile environment, which can elevate costs compared to non-surgical methods or other types of central venous access devices. While these catheters can remain in place for multiple years, present a lower risk of infection compared to non-tunneled catheters, and require minimal maintenance, the upfront costs associated with their insertion are a significant factor to consider when evaluating options for vascular access in a clinical setting.

External tunneled catheters are designed for long-term use and offer several advantages, but they do come with some drawbacks. One disadvantage is that they can be more costly when surgically placed. This higher expense is attributed to the surgical intervention required for insertion and potential need for specialized equipment and follow-up care. The placement of these catheters involves a surgical procedure that typically requires anesthesia and a sterile environment, which can elevate costs compared to non-surgical methods or other types of central venous access devices.

While these catheters can remain in place for multiple years, present a lower risk of infection compared to non-tunneled catheters, and require minimal maintenance, the upfront costs associated with their insertion are a significant factor to consider when evaluating options for vascular access in a clinical setting.