Vascular and Interventional Radiology Procedures for Vascular Access

Our experts specialize in procedures to provide long-term vascular access for people who frequently need medications or infusions.

Port placement and removal

Port catheters provide long-term central venous access for patients who frequently need medications or require intravenous (IV) chemotherapy. A port is about the size of a one-inch cube. Through a small incision, an interventional radiologist places a port under the skin. Then, using an image-guided, endovascular technique, the interventional radiologist places a catheter (thin tube) connected to the port into a large, centralized vein. The incision is sutured closed, and the port is ready for use immediately.

In most cases, ports are placed in the chest. However, a port may be placed elsewhere depending on your needs. When treatment is finished, the port is removed during a small, minimally invasive procedure.

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Tunneled central venous catheter placement and removal

Tunneled central venous catheters (CVCs) provide intermediate-term access to the bloodstream. Patients receiving chemotherapy or hemodialysis may need a tunneled CVC.

During the procedure, the CVC enters the skin through a small incision the size of a pencil eraser and is placed into a large, centralized vein. This provides access to the central bloodstream. When treatment ends, a tunneled CVC is easily removed during a short, minimally invasive procedure.

Resources for patients and referring providers

Make an appointment

We require a provider referral to vascular and interventional radiology before scheduling an appointment. Please contact your provider for a referral or visit our website to find a radiologist.

Refer a patient

Referring patients to UW Medicine’s vascular and interventional radiology department is simple.

Common radiology terminology

Common terminology used by our vascular and interventional radiology (VIR) team.