A Dacron cuff is a small, fibrous material attached to certain tunnelled central venous catheters (e.g., Hickman, Broviac, and some dialysis catheters). It is positioned under the skin, near the exit site of the catheter.

Functions of the Dacron Cuff:

1. Prevents Infection: 

The body’s tissue grows into the cuff, creating a barrier that helps block bacteria from travelling along the catheter into the bloodstream.

2. Secures the Catheter: 

The tissue integration helps hold the catheter in place, reducing the risk of accidental dislodgement.

3. Reduces the Need for Sutures: 

Once the cuff is embedded in the tissue (usually within a few weeks), stitches may no longer be needed to secure the catheter.

Where is it Located?

It is tunnelled under the skin between the catheter insertion site (where it enters the vein) and the external exit site.

Over time, tissue grows around the cuff, anchoring it in place.

The presence of a Dacron cuff is a key reason why tunnelled catheters have a lower infection risk compared to non-tunnelled central lines.