What is a hickman catheter used for?

A Hickman catheter is a type of central venous catheter used for long-term access to the bloodstream. It is commonly employed in patients requiring frequent blood draws, chemotherapy, or long-term medication administration. The catheter is surgically placed into a large vein, typically in the chest, allowing for direct access to the central venous system. It helps reduce the need for repeated needle sticks and minimizes complications associated with peripheral intravenous lines.