A flexible tube with 2 channels may be used on a temporary or long-term basis. A long-term use catheter often has a cuff that holds it in place. The catheter is surgically placed and tunneled under the skin. This catheter is often placed when dialysis is needed in an emergency, such as when the kidneys suddenly stop working. It may also be needed when a permanent AV access fails or has not yet been placed. A catheter is usually placed into one of the following