The results with a cuffed silicon rubber right atrial catheter for prolonged parenteral nutrition are reported. In 43 patients, 78 catheters were inserted; of these, 52 were removed for various reasons. The mean duration of catheter patency in 26 patients currently infusing at home is 9.4 mo. The high incidence of catheter-related septicemia previously reported by others was reduced to 1 for every 5.5 patient yr. The combination of soft Silastic material, catheter design, localization and easy handling by the patient have all contributed to its longer life span.