What is a major disadvantage of a Central Venous Catheter?

A central venous catheter (CVC) is a common method for accessing the bloodstream for hemodialysis, but one of its significant disadvantages is the associated risk of infections. The insertion site for a CVC is typically external, which increases the opportunity for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, leading to serious infections such as bloodstream infections or sepsis. These infections can complicate patient management, extend hospital stays, and increase morbidity and mortality risks.

While ease of insertion and the requirement for surgical intervention each have their own considerations, they do not compare with the high stakes involved with infection. Similarly, the time required for a CVC to mature before use is not as critical as the potential for life-threatening infections. Therefore, recognizing the risk of significant infections as a major disadvantage is crucial in understanding the overall implications of using central venous catheters for hemodialysis access.