Oncology

Oncology is the branch of medicine concerning the development, diagnosis, and treatment of tumors. At Atlanta Access Care, our services include:

• Venous Access Device (insertions and removals)
• Biopsy (thyroid, liver, soft tissue, bone)
• Paracentesis and Thoracentesis

Venous Access Devices

Venous access devices are often implanted under the skin. These devices allow medications to be delivered directly to larger veins and can be left in place for long periods of time.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a medical test involving the removal of cells or tissue to determine the existence or cause of disease.

Paracentesis and Thoracentesis

Paracentesis is a medical procedure that is performed to remove fluid from the abdomen while thoracentesis removes fluid from the body cavity, which surrounds the chest.

Portacath Placement and Removal

A portacath consists of a reservoir (the portal) and a tube (the catheter). The portal is implanted under the skin in the upper chest. The catheter runs in a tunnel under the skin, going over the collarbone and then enters the large vein in the lower neck (the internal jugular vein). The portacath is completely internal so patients can bathe and swim without issue.

The procedure is performed under local anesthetic, with the aid of imaging guidance (ultrasound and X-ray). The actual procedure takes less than an hour. Typically you can go home two hours following the procedure, when you have recovered from the sedation.

When no longer needed, the portacath can be removed in the operating room.

To schedule a consultation, call Southern California Vein Care at 619.263.9729.