My catheter
Various diseases can cause recurrent pleural effusion or ascites, which is sometimes called fluid around the lungs or fluid in the abdomen. Our products and service concept can help you maintain your mobility, improve your quality of life and avoid repeated hospital stays.
What kind of catheter is it and what does it do?
A drainova® or PleurX™/PeritX™ catheter is a soft, fleixible silicone tube. This catheter is implanted by the doctor in a minimally invasive procedure and does not need to be replaced. The catheter is placed with one part inside the body and one part outside. A small polyester cuff grows into the tissue under the skin. This avoids accidentally pulling out the catheter.
The part of the catheter that is outside the body has a safety valve. Via this safety valve, a special drainage set can be connected to drain the fluid in a safe way for the patient.
When not draining fluid, the catheter can be placed under an adhesive dressing. This way you can comfortably wear it under your clothes without others seeing it. This gives you maximum freedom of movement. You also avoid the inconvenience and time involved in having to be admitted to hospital for repeated procedures.
With us you are in safe hands
We have many years of experience in this field. That’s why we can help you and your healthcare provider every step of the way, from implantation at the hospital to training on how to use our drainage sets at home. In this way, we can help you regain some mobility and quality of life.
After the physician has implanted your catheter, you can be discharged from hospital and go home. Then we can train you on how to use our drainage sets, so that you, your loved ones or home health care can drain the fluid safely. Read more about our service here.
More information:
FAQ (common questions)
Yes, we have many years of experience in drainage of pleural effusion and ascites. Every year, many hundreds of patients in Sweden receive an indwelling catheter and within the Group we have thousands of patients per year. As a patient, you do not need to go to hospital to have the fluid drained. That way you can spend more time at home with family and friends. This will give you back some quality of life.
No, you can keep the catheter as long as you need it.
If you see signs of infection at the catheter exit site, such as redness or swelling, you should contact your doctor to treat the infection. Your doctor can help you with your medical questions.
Yes, if you cover the catheter completely and correctly with an adhesive dressing, you can shower. Should water seep under the dressing, you will need to change the dressing after the shower.
Our tip is to take a shower before you have to drain your fluid as you will need to change the dressing afterwards anyway.