Central Venous Catheter. a tube surgically placed in a large vein in the upper chest or neck (e.g., Opti Flow, HICKMAN® Catheter, Quinton, GROSHONG® Catheter). Fluids, such as blood and/or chemotherapy, may be infused through this catheter and blood samples can be withdrawn from it.
                                                            
                                                     
                        
                                                
                        
                        
                            Central venous catheter. A special thin, flexible tube placed in a large vein, usually in the chest, neck, or upper arm. It can remain there for as long as it is needed to deliver and withdraw fluids.