Lifecath Hickman/Broviac lines

Broviac and Hickman lines are longterm central lines that are inserted in the sub-clavian area of the chest. The catheter is placed in a large vessel, with the tip in the superior vena cava above the right atrium. They are tunnelled catheters with a cuff just under the skin. The line can stay in for as long as it is needed (barring any complications). It is used to administer medications or draw blood.