Which type of catheter is surgically inserted through a tunnel into subcutaneous tissue?

A tunneled central venous catheter is designed for long-term vascular access and is surgically inserted into a vein, typically the jugular or subclavian vein, and tunneled under the skin to exit at a more distant site. This tunneling provides extra security and reduces the risk of infection, as the catheter is less exposed to the external environment. The subcutaneous tissue provides a protective pathway, allowing the catheter to remain in place for an extended period, often months or even years, for patients requiring frequent blood draws or long-term medication administration.

In contrast, peripheral venous catheters are inserted into peripheral veins and are meant for short-term use, as they do not have the tunneling feature and are more vulnerable to complications. External jugular catheters are also used for shorter durations and are visible externally, making them different in application and purpose. Short-term access devices, like certain types of intravenous catheters, are designed for temporary use and are not tunneled, making them unsuitable for long-term therapy.

The characteristics of tunneled central venous catheters, including their method of insertion, location of access, and longevity of use, clearly distinguish them as the correct choice for this question.