A Hickman line is a thin, long silicone catheter that is inserted through one side of the chest area and threaded via a large vein to a place near your heart.
The line has 2 or 3 openings called lumens that allow the simultaneous administration of different medications. Each lumen is sealed off with a needle-free connector at the end and has a clamp along the line to control the flow of medication or to close the line when not in use.
The insertion is performed under local anaesthetic. After the procedure, you will be able to go home with the Hickman line on the same day, and the line can be left in place for weeks or months until you complete your treatment.
It is recommended for long-term treatments that require:
The benefits of having a Hickman line in place include:
While a Hickman line is generally very safe, there are still potential risks and complications.
Risks during insertion:
Complications after insertion:
The doctor will determine whether a Hickman line is the recommended device for you based on your treatment, medical condition and history. A Port-a-cath and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) are alternatives.
You will be asked to lie down on your back, and the intended insertion sites will be cleaned thoroughly with antiseptic fluid to sterilise the area.
Next, a local anaesthetic is injected into the skin of the chest and collarbone area to numb the area. After that, you should only feel slight pressure, not pain during the procedure.
Once the local anaesthetic has taken effect, two incisions will be made on the skin at your collarbone area and chest area. The catheter will be inserted via the collarbone incision and threaded along a large vein to a place near your heart. This will be guided by ultrasound. The other end of the catheter will be tunnelled under the skin towards and out the second chest incision. The incisions are closed with stitches.
A chest X-ray is used to check the position of the Hickman line.
Our dedicated team of doctors and nurses will give you detailed instructions and provide you with any assistance to help you care for your Hickman line. You can also contact the clinic anytime if you have any queries.
Once you have completed your treatment and no longer need the line, the Hickman line will be removed. The entry and exit sites are stitched to close the incisions.
The information on the Centre For Clinical Haematology website is intended for educational use. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health professional.
We partner with major insurance providers in Singapore to streamline the financial process, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: your recovery. Contact our team for more information and support.
The CFCH team is committed to providing patient-centred care and comprehensive multidisciplinary support through every stage of your journey with us.
During your initial consultation, you'll meet our doctors who will listen to your concerns and begin your evaluation and recommend the necessary investigations required.
After diagnosis, we will plan your care, tailoring treatment options to your unique needs for the optimal outcome.
Throughout your treatment journey, we will provide a supportive environment to closely monitor your progress, ensuring your comfort and adjusting care as needed.
After treatment, we will continue to support you with a holistic approach to your recovery, to ensure that both your physical and mental wellbeing are looked after.
