Things to know about the catheter for drainage
Various diseases can cause recurrent pleural effusions or ascites, also known colloquially as water on the lungs or abdominal fluid. In order to maintain your mobility and save you constant hospital stays, we are at your side with our products and the specially developed ewimed care concept.
My catheter - Things to know about draining pleural effusion and ascites
Various diseases can cause recurring pleural effusions or ascites, also known colloquially as water in the lungs or abdominal fluid. In order to maintain your mobility and spare you constant hospital stays, we are at your side with our products and the specially developed ewimed care concept.
What kind of catheter is it and what does it do?
A drainova® catheter is a soft, flexible tube made of biocompatible silicone. The catheter is implanted once by the doctor during a short surgical procedure under local anesthesia and can remain in the body for as long as excessive fluid builds up. The part of the catheter with the many small drainage holes is located in the body and the white polyester sleeve in the middle of the catheter is placed under the skin by the doctor. This white cuff fuses with the tissue, preventing the catheter from accidentally slipping out. At the visible end of the catheter is a white safety valve, which can be connected to a gravity bag, soft vacuum reservoir or vacuum bottle to drain the fluid as required or as prescribed by the doctor.
The drainage of the fluid takes about 15 minutes. The catheter is then bandaged with gauze compresses and a waterproof film dressing, which can also be used for showering. The dressing is comfortable, inconspicuous under clothing and not visible to others. The time-consuming, recurring punctures at the hospital or clinic are no longer necessary. The discomfort is efficiently alleviated. You benefit from greater freedom of movement and an improved quality of life.
Everything you need to know as a patient and family
Once the catheter has been implanted, which can be done on an outpatient basis or in conjunction with a very short inpatient stay, you can go home with the catheter. The doctor or nurse treating you will inform ewimed Switerzland AG that you have received a catheter. ewimed Switerzland AG will send you the material for the drainage free of charge by post and we will arrange a training appointment with you or your relatives. A product specialist from ewimed Switerzland AG will come to your home one or two days after you leave hospital and explain to you how to insert the drainage and change the dressing easily and safely.
Find out more about the ewimed service and care concept.
Your advantages at a glance:
- No recurring therapeutic punctures of the pleural effusion or ascites by the doctor
- Simple, safe and time-saving drainage at home
- Reduction of complaints and efficient symptom control
- Improving quality of life and mobility
Frequently asked questions
Yes, we have many years of experience and have already treated many patients with pleural effusion and ascites at home with recurrent drainage. For most patients it is a great relief and the catheter gives them back a lot of quality of life and mobility.
No, the catheter can remain in place for an indefinite period of time. If you notice any signs of infection at the catheter exit site, such as redness or swelling, please speak to your doctor immediately. They will be happy to help you at any time with any uncertainties or questions you may have.
Yes, if your catheter is completely and correctly covered with the self-adhesive foil dressing, you can take a shower. However, if water gets under the dressing, you will need to apply a new dressing. Our tip: Take a shower before you drain and would have to change the dressing anyway.