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Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of an evidence-based practice educational intervention in preventing peripheral venous catheter complications. Method: observational study with educational intervention for nursing professionals of a hospital in Minas Gerais, Brazil, about flushing, push-pause and locking techniques. Convenience sampling: 181 catheters in the pre-intervention group and 157 in the post-intervention group. The incidence of complications was evaluated and compared by the Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. Results: the incidence of complications in the post-intervention group was: 4.5% for obstruction (p=0.000), 10.8% for accidental removal (p=0.265) and 1.9% for phlebitis (p=0.847). The use of the flushing, push-pause and locking techniques resulted in a significant reduction in the incidence of obstruction. Conclusion: the educational intervention enabled updated knowledge and the implementation of flushing, push-pause and locking in nursing practices. The study is a contribution to nursing intervention planning to reduce the occurrence of obstruction.

Objective Occlusion of ventriculoperitoneal shunts placed after intraventricular hemorrhage occurs frequently. The objective of this study was to develop a hemorrhagic hydrocephalus model to assess the ability of an oscillating microactuator within the ventricular catheter (VC) to prevent shunt obstruction. Methods An in vitro hydrocephalus model with extreme risk of shunt obstruction was created. Phosphate-buffered saline, blood, and thrombin were driven through ventriculoperitoneal shunts for 8 hours. Five VCs were fitted with a microactuator and compared with 5 control VCs. The microactuator was actuated by an external magnetic field for 30 minutes. Pressure within the imitation lateral ventricle was measured. Results In the 5 control shunts, 6 obstructions developed (3 VC, 3 valve-distal catheter) compared with 1 obstruction (VC) in the 5 microactuator shunts. In the control and microactuator groups, the median volume exiting the shunts in 8 hours was 30 mL versus 256 mL. Median time to reach an intraventricular pressure of 40 mm Hg (13.8 minutes vs. >8 hours), median total time >40 mm Hg (6.2 hours vs. 0.0 hours), and median maximum pressure (192 mm Hg vs. 36 mm Hg) were significantly improved in the microactuator group (P Conclusions In addition to protecting the VC, the microactuator appeared to prevent hematoma obstructing the valve or distal catheter, resulting in a much longer duration of low intraventricular pressures. A microactuator activated by placing the patient's head in an external magnetic field could reduce shunt obstructions in hemorrhagic hydrocephalus.

Summary Introduction Patients with chronic intestinal failure (IF) require home parenteral nutrition (HPN). Central venous access is needed for prolonged use of PN, usually via a long term central venous access device (CVAD). Post insertion there may be mechanical complications with a CVAD such as catheter rupture or tear. Repair of damaged CVADs is possible to avoid risks associated with catheter replacement in patients with IF. However, catheter related blood stream infections (CRBSI) are a concern when CVAD's are accessed or manipulated. Aims To investigate the success of repair of CVADs in patients with IF on HPN, related to repair longevity and incidence of CRBSI following repair. Method Nutrition team records of CVAD repairs carried out in patients with IF were reviewed retrospectively for the period April 2015 to March 2019. Results Nutrition Clinical Nurse Specialists carried out 38 repairs in 27 patients. Male n = 5, female n = 22; mean age 55 years. Catheter longevity before first repair (n = 27): median 851 days, IQR 137–1484 days. 30/38 (78.9%) of repairs were successful lasting ≥30days. Hospital admission was avoided in 76% of cases. 4 patients in the failed repair group underwent catheter re-insertion where 4 had a further, subsequently successful, repair, an overall success rate of 89.4% (34/38). 30-day CRBSI rate was 0.09/1000 catheter days in repaired catheters. In comparing costs, there is a potential cost saving of 2766GBP for repair compared to replacement of damaged CVADs. Conclusion Repair of tunnelled CVADs in patients with IF is successful and safe with no increased risk of CRBSI. Significant cost savings may be made.

Background: Up to 50% of all long-term catheterized individuals experience recurrent episodes of urinary catheter infections and blockages, leading to urine retention, pyelonephritis and septicaemia if the catheter is left in situ. We have previously reported the synergistic activity of weak organic acid (WOA) combinations against nosocomial uropathogens. Aim: To investigate the efficacy of selected WOAs, citric acid and propionic acid, alone and in combination, on prevention of crystalline biofilm formation and catheter blockages. Methods: Static crystallization assays and dynamic in vitro bladder model assays, with scanning electron microscopy, were performed for determination of bacterial viability, urinary pH and time to catheter blockage. Findings: The rate of encrustation around the catheter eyeholes was reduced in the presence of the citric acid/propionic acid combination, extending the time to blockage three-fold. Conclusion: Synergistic WOA combinations identified herein represent promising alternatives to antibiotics to combat the global healthcare burden of catheter-associated urinary tract infections and related blockages.

Background The patency of a permanent arteriovenous catheter plays a significant role in the functioning of the catheter among patients dependent on the hemodialysis. Thrombosis formation is one of the most critical reasons for the short-term efficacy of the embedded catheters. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of warfarin for hemodialysis catheter failure prevention. Methods This randomized clinical trial has been conducted on patients under hemodialysis using a permanent arteriovenous catheter. The patients were randomly allocated to the control group and the intervention group. The intervention group was treated with warfarin to achieve a target international normalized ratio (INR) of 1.5–2. The control group did not receive any treatment. The patients were followed for 12 months to assess the efficacy defined as the incidence of catheter clotting and safety defined as warfarin-related hemorrhage. Results Eighty-six patients with end-stage renal disease under hemodialysis were included, among which 43 ones were allocated to the intervention group and the latter ones to the control group. The participants of both groups were similar in terms of demographic, clinical, and baseline laboratory characteristics. Four patients (9.3%) presented with warfarin-induced hematoma, among which the warfarin administration stopped for 5.33 ± 1.44 days and then restarted again. None of the patients was forced to cease warfarin therapy because of significant hemorrhages. The mean duration of catheter functioning was 8.30 ± 1.75 months in the intervention group versus 3.90 ± 1.12 months in the controls (P-value Conclusions Based on the findings of the present study, the use of warfarin to achieve an INR level of 1.5–2 could effectively lead to a longer duration of permanent hemodialysis catheter functioning.

Background Despite the increasing popularity of midline catheters, data on the use of alteplase for restoring midline catheter patency is scarce. Aims This study aimed to evaluate off-label use of alteplase for midline catheter occlusions. Method: Adults who received alteplase into a midline catheter between January 2015 and May 2018 within a multi-hospital health system were included in this study. The primary outcome was restoration of infusion or withdrawal function from at least one lumen of a treated midline catheter. Findings Following alteplase administration, withdrawal function was restored in 47% (25/53) of occlusion events, infusion function was restored in 65% (11/17) of complete occlusion events, and infusion or withdrawal function was restored in 58% (31/53) of occlusion events. Only 34% (17/50) of catheters were replaced because of malfunction. Local bleeding was documented in 9% (n=5) of occlusion events after alteplase administration. Conclusion Most midline catheter occlusions treated with alteplase demonstrated restoration of infusion or withdrawal function.

BACKGROUND Intravenous (IV) catheter insertion may cause adverse reactions. It is necessary to investigate optimal methods for reducing blood return and extending the usage time of IV catheter by existing technologies. We investigated the efficacy of the PosiFlow regulator with an infusion clip for preventing IV catheter plugging due to venous blood return. METHODS From January 2017 to August 2017, 960 patients requiring IV catheterization were recruited and by using the block randomization method randomly allocated to 4 groups (n=240 in each group): a control group receiving IV catheter with infusion clip; experimental group A receiving IV catheter without infusion clip; experimental group B receiving an IV catheter with the PosiFlow regulator; and experimental group C receiving an IV catheter with a PosiFlow regulator and infusion clip. The rates of catheter plugging and blood return were compared among groups. RESULTS In different reasons for needle pulling, The rates of catheter plugging and blood return in experimental group C (Received IV catheterization with an infusion clip and PosiFlow regulato) were the lowest among all groups (P

OBJECTIVE Midline catheters are considered "midway" regarding vascular access. The objective of this systematic review was to explore the current practice, dwell time, and complication rates of midline catheters. DESIGN Systematic review. SETTING Search on four databases, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Embase, were conducted for English language articles published after the year 2000. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS A total of 987 articles were identified, of which 31 manuscripts met the inclusion criteria and were selected for review. Quality assurance was performed based on the Newcastle-Ottawa score. Average dwell time and complication rates were calculated for studies involving adult patients and adjusted for sample size. This analysis included data from the placement of 18,972 midline catheters across five countries. Aside from two randomized control trials, most of the studies analyzed were cohort studies. One pediatric and two neonatal studies were included. The average dwell time was 16.3 days (n = 4,412). The adjusted mean infection rate was 0.28/1,000 catheter days, with 64% of studies not reporting any infection with midline catheter. The failure rate of midline catheters was 12.5%. Adjusted average rates of other significant complications included the following: deep vein thrombosis (4.1%), dislodgement (5.0%), occlusion (3.8%), phlebitis (3.4%), and infiltration (1.9%). CONCLUSIONS The dwell times and failure rates of midline catheters compare favorably against published data on other types of catheters. Their infection rates are also lower than the reported rates of central venous catheters; however, they have a higher rate of mechanical complications. Active surveillance of infections due to midline catheters is recommended. More data are needed from pediatric and neonatal populations.

The non-homogenous flow of the cerebrospinal fluid within the ventricular catheter is one of the causative factors in shunt obstructions during the treatment of hydrocephalus. Previously, we studied the flow in ventricular catheters under the steady and pulsatile boundary conditions by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in three-dimensional paradigms. Subsequently, several catheter designs with homogeneous flow patterns were developed out of which one prototype was chosen after a validation study. To test the effectiveness of the flow ventricular catheter in a prospective, multicenter, comparative study. Eligible centers were three pediatric hospitals: two with sole adult practice and one a mixed pediatric-adult. Standard silicone material was used to develop a parametric catheter model with homogenous flow characteristics. The flow catheters were inserted in pediatric (n = 30) and adult (n = 10) patients with all types of hydrocephalus. Simultaneously, regular ventricular catheters were inserted in another 43 control patients in the participating centers. Catheter positioning was standardized according to the Schaumann and Thomale classification. All ventricular catheters had a cephalad grade I or II positioning, and caudally, its extension had a peritoneal location. Programmable valves were utilized in 70% and antisiphon devices in 20% of the cases. Regular differential pressure valves were utilized in the remaining. No case of flow catheter obstruction was identified during a mean follow-up period of 2 years at the time of this writing. There were four catheter obstructions in the control cohort, all pediatric cases, during the first year. Shunt infections occurred in two cases in the control group, while there was one recurrent case of adult ventriculitis in the flow catheter group. This prototype model represents the next generation of ventricular catheters with a homogeneous flow pattern. The flow catheter can be inserted safely in hydrocephalic patients, and this preliminary prospective comparative study showed a possible obstruction-free functionality.

Objetivo: Analizar las producciones científicas que abordan las estrategias de prevención y atención en la obstrucción de los catéteres venosos centrales totalmente implantados en pacientes con cáncer.Material y método: Esta es una revisión bibliográfica integradora, que se realizó en las bases de datos MEDLINE, LILACS, CINAHL y EMBASE, del 20 de julio de 2019 al 31 de julio de 2019, utilizando los siguientes descriptores: Cateterización venosa central; Obstrucción del catéter y oncología, más el uso de términos libres: catéter completamente implantado y neoplasia.Resultados: En total, se seleccionaron e incluyeron 10 estudios. Después del análisis, surgieron las siguientes categorías de análisis: Estrategias para prevenir la obstrucción en CVC-TI y Atención establecidas en el despacho de CVC-TI; teniendo como principales temas abordados: la comparación entre la eficacia en el uso de heparina y solución salina para el mantenimiento y el intervalo de tiempo entre ellos; métodos de despacho y evaluación de permeabilidad CVC-IT.Conclusión: A pesar de la aparición de nuevas formas posibles de prevención de obstrucciones y estrategias de atención en la eliminación de CVC-IT, la literatura no presenta consenso sobre el uso de soluciones con o sin heparina y el intervalo de tiempo entre el mantenimiento para la efectividad de permeabilidad de estos dispositivos en pacientes con cáncer. Objective: To analyze scientific productions that address prevention and care strategies in the obstruction of central venous catheters that are fully implanted in cancer patients.Material and Method: This is an integrative literature review, which took place on the MEDLINE, LILACS, CINAHL and EMBASE databases, from 20 July 2019 to 31 July 2019, using as descriptors: Central venous catheterization; Catheter obstruction and Oncology, in addition to the use of free terms: Catheter fully implanted and Neoplasia.Results: In total, 10 studies were selected and included. After the analysis, the following analysis categories emerged: Strategies for preventing obstruction in CVC-TI and Care established in clearing the CVC-TI; having as main subjects approached: the comparison between the effectiveness in the use of heparin and saline solution for maintenance and time interval between them; unblocking methods and permeability assessment of CVC-TI.Conclusion: Despite the emergence of new possible ways of preventing obstruction and care strategies for clearing CVC-TI, the literature does not have a consensus on the use of solutions with or without heparin and the time interval between maintenance for the effectiveness of the permeability of these devices in cancer patients. Objetivo: Analisar produções científicas que abordem a prevenção e estratégias de cuidado na obstrução de cateteres venosos centrais totalmente implantados em pacientes oncológicos.Material e Método: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, que ocorreu nas bases de dados MEDLINE, LILACS, CINAHL e EMBASE, no período 20 de Julho de 2019 a 31 de Julho de 2019, utilizando-se como descritores: Cateterismo venoso central; Obstrução de cateter e Oncologia, além do uso dos termos livres: Cateter totalmente implantado e Neoplasia.Resultados: Ao total, 10 estudos foram selecionados e incluídos. Após a análise, emergiram as seguintes categorias de análise: Estratégias de prevenção da obstrução em CVC-TI e Cuidados estabelecidos na desobstrução do CVC-TI; tendo então como principais assuntos abordados: a comparação entre a eficácia no uso da heparina e solução salina para manutenções e tempo de intervalo entre as mesmas; métodos de desobstrução e avaliação de permeabilidade dos CVC-TI.Conclusão: Apesar do surgimento de novas formas possíveis de prevenção de obstrução e estratégias de cuidado na desobstrução dos CVC-TI, a literatura não apresenta consenso sobre o uso de soluções com ou sem heparina e o tempo de intervalo entre as manutenções para a efetividade da permeabilidade desses dispositivos em pacientes oncológicos.

We aimed to introduce the puncture technique based on a novel device for preperitoneal tunneling in laparoscopic PD catheter placement and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of this technique. This novel device was used in our center from May 2016. We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing laparoscopic PD catheter placement. The traditional method was performed in 20 patients and the novel procedure in 18 patients. A straight Tenckhoff PD catheter was placed in all patients. No intraoperative complications were encountered in both groups. Compared the traditional technique group, the procedure based on the novel device had a shorter operative time (49.2 ± 11.8 vs 53.9 ± 12.5). One patient in the traditional tunneling group underwent catheter obstruction. There were no pericatheter leakage, exit site and subcutaneous infection, hernia and peritonitis in the early postoperative days. No mortality was observed in these patients. The 6-month survival rate of the catheter was 100%. Laparoscopic preperitoneal tunneling technique is an effective way to implant intra-abdominal catheter. Our method based on a novel puncture device for preperitoneal tunneling is safe and efficient.

Purpose: This study examined the safety and efficacy of placing both a central venous dialysis catheter and a central venous catheter for infusion in the right internal jugular vein compared to only a central venous dialysis catheter. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review for all adult patients who underwent the placement of the right internal jugular dialysis catheter by a single surgeon. Patients were grouped based on whether they received a tunneled dual lumen dialysis catheter alone or in combination with a central venous infusion catheter in the right internal jugular vein. Catheter-related thrombosis, line infections, line malfunctions, pneumothorax, and need for line replacement were evaluated. Results: There were 97 patients in the dialysis catheter and central venous infusion line group and 63 patients in the dialysis catheter only group. The two groups were not different with regard to age (62.1 ± 16.3 years vs 57.9 ± 17.6 years) and gender (47.4% male vs 55.6% male). No significant differences were found in the incidence of thrombosis (1.0 % vs 0.0%, p > 0.999), line infection (2.1% vs 0.0%, p = 0.519), or line malfunctions (2.1% vs 0.0%, p = 0.516) in patients who did or did not have a central venous infusion catheter placed concomitantly with the dialysis catheter, respectively. No patients in either group had a pneumothorax. Conclusions: Although not currently utilized with frequency, these preliminary data indicate that placing both a dual lumen dialysis catheter and central venous infusion catheter in the right internal jugular simultaneously could be a viable option.

Purpose To compare clinical performance of 2 widely used symmetric-tip hemodialysis catheters. Materials and Methods Patients with end-stage renal disease initiating or resuming hemodialysis were randomized to receive an Arrow–Clark VectorFlow (n = 50) or Palindrome catheter (n = 50). Primary outcome was 90-d primary unassisted catheter patency. Secondary outcomes were Kt/V ([dialyzer urea clearance × total treatment time]/total volume of urea distribution), urea reduction ratio (URR), and effective blood flow (QB). Results Primary unassisted patency rates with the VectorFlow catheter at 30, 60, and 90 d were 95.5% ± 3.3, 87.2% ± 7.3, and 80.6% ± 9.8, respectively, compared with 89.1% ± 6.2, 79.4% ± 10.0, and 71.5% ± 12.6 with the Palindrome catheter (P = .20). Patients with VectorFlow catheters had a mean Kt/V of 1.5 at 30-, 60-, and 90-day time points, significantly higher than the mean Kt/V of 1.3 among those with Palindrome catheters (P = .0003). URRs were not significantly different between catheters. Catheter QB rates exceeded National Kidney Foundation–recommended thresholds of 300 mL/min at all time points for both catheters and were similar for both catheters (median, 373 mL/min). Catheter failure, ie, poor flow rate requiring guide-wire exchange or removal, within the 90-day primary outcome occurred in 3 VectorFlow subjects and 5 Palindrome subjects (P = .72). Infection rates were similar, with 0.98 infections per 1,000 catheter days for VectorFlow catheters compared with 2.62 per 1,000 catheter days for Palindrome catheters (P = .44). Conclusions The 90-day primary patency rates of Palindrome and VectorFlow catheters were not significantly different, and both achieved sustained high QB through 90 day follow-up. However, dialysis adequacy based on Kt/V was consistently better with the VectorFlow catheter versus the Palindrome.

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement for the treatment of hydrocephalus is one of the most common pediatric neurosurgical procedures. Complications, including infections, catheter obstruction, shunt breakdown, and hemorrhage, have been described in the literature. Occasionally, however, uncommon and devastating complications occur. We report a case of a 10-year-old female patient who at birth underwent surgical closure of lumbar myelomeningocele and placement of a CSF shunt at another center. Her neurosurgical follow-up was poor. She presented at our institution with a history of recurrent pneumonia. Control chest X-rays showed a right pulmonary infiltrate with lung retraction and mediastinal shift. Chest and brain CT scans confirmed the intrapulmonary location of the distal catheter tip and ventricular dilation. Surgical shunt revision was performed with removal of the intrapulmonary catheter and placement of a new intraperitoneal catheter. Subsequently, right pneumonectomy was performed with good postoperative recovery of the patient. Intrathoracic migration of the distal catheter of the CSF shunt is an extremely rare complication that may produce severe morbidity. To our knowledge, there have been no previous reports on extensive lung destruction secondary to intrathoracic and intrapulmonary ventriculoperitoneal shunt migration. In patients with CSF shunts and pulmonary symptoms, intrapulmonary catheter migration should be considered.

Central venous catheter (CVC) dysfunction is often associated with thrombosis, which in turn has been linked with poorer survival outcomes in cancer patients. Our objective was to examine the association of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) administration as a surrogate measure of CVC dysfunction with survival in pediatric cancer patients. The present study uses data from a population-based retrospective cohort of pediatric oncology patients from the Canadian Maritime provinces treated between 2000 and 2017 at the IWK Health Centre, Halifax, NS. Demographics, diagnosis, date of death or date of last visit, and tPA use for CVC dysfunction were obtained from clinical databases and the provincial Cancer in Young People in Canada registry. The association between tPA administration and survival was examined using a Cox regression model adjusted for sex, age at diagnosis, cancer type, thrombosis, CVC duration, diagnosis era, and treatment modalities. Out of 821 patients, 206 received one or more doses of tPA during upfront therapy. The death rate was 21% and 15% respectively in patients who did and did not receive tPA. In the adjusted regression model, after receiving one or more doses of tPA, children had significantly poorer survival as compared to those that did not receive tPA (HR: 1.496, 95% CI: 1.019, 2.197). CVC dysfunction may be associated with a poorer prognosis in pediatric cancer patients. Future studies should corroborate these findings in other populations, examine the influence of other potential confounders, and determine the role of CVC dysfunction in prognostic models of cancer survival.

Catheter obstruction is a serious complication associated with peritoneal dialysis (PD). Diagnostic imaging techniques play a role in the management of patients undergoing PD, mainly in detecting potential catheter-related complications. Imaging can help in the treatment decision process. Visualizing the obstruction and understanding the etiology are crucial for accurate management of patients and in determining therapeutic strategies. Although a PD catheter obstruction can be diagnosed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasonography (US) has been reported to be equally effective. The effectiveness of US and MRI in detecting PD catheter obstructions was compared in four pediatric patients. These cases demonstrate that US was more useful in visualizing PD obstruction compared with MRI. US can be repeated more conveniently and is noninvasive, especially in children. US can be considered an effective tool for diagnosing PD catheter obstruction in children.

Introduction: Although the use of ultrasound for the insertion of central catheters has proven to be cost-effective in adults, it is not known if this is the case in the neonatal population. This study compared the cost-effectiveness of ultrasound-guided umbilical venous catheterisation with conventional catheterisation in a neonatal intensive care unit of a Public University Hospital. Patients and methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on newborns that required an umbilical venous catheter before completing their first 24 h of extra-uterine life. Two retrospective cohorts were formed, including one with ultrasound-guided catheterisation and the other with conventional catheterisation. The effectiveness was measured using 2 variables: placement of ideal position and insertion without complications. The cost of human and material resources (consumable and non-consumable), the cost-effectiveness ratio, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio were estimated, as well as carrying out a sensitivity analysis. Results: Catheter obstruction was more frequent in guided catheterisation than in conventional catheterisation (7.7% vs. 0%, P = .04) and catheter dysfunction was higher in the latter (79% vs. 3.8%, P

BACKGROUND Intraventricular hemorrhages (IVH) are a potentially fatal diagnosis that must be managed properly to avoid devastating complications. While existing catheters have offered relative success, their reactive composition makes them prone to eventual obstruction and thrombotic activation. This problematic outcome has led to emergence of the Codman® CerebroFlo® EVD Catheter. This catheter is the first of its kind to incorporate the Endexo additive, a slightly reactive, surface modifying molecule that prevents protein adhesion and biomatter accumulation. METHODS Despite the promising early outcomes, there are no PubMed articles characterizing this device, with minimal literature highlighting its clinical value. Through a contemporary literature review, the authors will characterize the technological principles, indications, and advantages of this novel device. RESULTS The authors report the early findings of this catheter, with studies showing 99% reduction in thrombotic activity with an additional 89% reduction in catheter obstruction compared to its competitors. Areas of uncertainty regarding this device are discussed, with its lack of antibiotic coating being a possible area for clinical concern. CONCLUSIONS the CerebroFlo® catheter is a novel and effective tool in the management of IVH that should be widely considered for the management of IVH.

We reported the first clinical use of lyticase enzyme in salvaging the peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter obstruction from Acremonium fungal biofilm during the COVID-19 pandemic era with an impressive result in PD patient presenting with fungal peritonitis and ultrafiltration failure. The organism species was disclosed from PD effluent and catheter cultures. Adjuvant treatment with in-situ lyticase may be considered for catheter salvage therapy if the catheter could not promptly removed in time.

Catheter obstruction is a major cause of dialysate flow problems in peritoneal dialysis (PD). It will lead to PD technique failure, when its conservative management such as vigorous instillation of dialysate occasionally fails to salvage the catheter potency. In this report, we present two cases of catheter obstruction caused by intraluminal clots of PD catheter. The clots, which could not be removed by the conservative management, were removed by a new technique using an angiographic guidewire. The technique could be an option to resolve PD catheter obstruction.

Ventricular catheter obstructions in patients treated with external ventricular drains (EVDs) have the potential to substantially impact the cost of patient care. There is a paucity of literature that directly addresses catheter obstruction over large numbers of patients with EVDs in multiple centers. Contemporary literature was reviewed to characterize causes, complications, and costs of EVD catheter obstruction. Data from published studies of EVD complications were compiled to estimate the rate of EVD catheter replacement and quantify the correlation between catheter replacement and infection. In these studies, the average number of catheters placed per patient with an EVD was 1.26, indicating a relatively high rate of replacement. Obstructions because of thrombosis and catheter malposition were identified as frequent causes of EVD replacement. Patients who underwent replacement had a 29% rate of ventriculostomy-related infection compared with 6% in those who had no replacement. The estimated diagnostic, procedural, and material cost of EVD replacement is in the range of approximately $1300-$3200 per replacement. The diagnosis and treatment of ventricular catheter obstruction, along with associated complications, creates a substantial cost burden. Further research should focus on strategies to reduce the incidence of ventricular catheter obstruction.

Industry has long fought the battle to design a vascular catheter that is less thrombogenic. Indwelling catheters provide long-term central venous access, but they develop fibrin sheaths as the vascular system recognizes them as foreign bodies. Peripheral catheters and central catheters can be changed over a guidewire when they form a fibrin sheath or otherwise malfunction. However, totally implantable venous access devices such as a port cannot be easily exchanged over a wire. Therefore, when a port malfunctions, thrombolytics are usually the only option attempted before the port is explanted and a new site is prepared for access. We present a minimally invasive technique demonstrating port salvage that does not require explant.

Purpose:Totally implantable venous access ports are widely used in chemotherapy for malignant tumors. This retrospective study investigated the safety, technical feasibility, and device-related complications of totally implantable venous access ports implanted in the upper arm.Methods:Between May 2016 and June 2018, 570 women with early breast cancer received chemotherapy and were successfully implanted with a totally implantable venous access port in the upper arm. Device-related complications were collected and influencing factors were analyzed for major complications.Results:Only one case underwent premature port removal before the end of chemotherapy. Device-related complications were observed in 32 cases, including 31 late complications. The rate of complications was 0.263/1000 catheter-days. Infection and thrombosis were the most common complications, occurring in 13 and 8 cases, respectively. Other complications were catheter occlusion, catheter dislocation, arrhythmia, and so on. Patients with higher body mass index were significantly more prone to infection and those who experienced catheter-related thrombosis had longer implantation times and higher body mass indices.Conclusion:Implanting totally implantable venous access ports in the upper arm is feasible and safe for patients with early breast cancer, with a low rate of complications, providing good alternative to central venous ports.

Introduction. The transplantation of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cells (allo-HSCT) is impossible without a central venous catheter (CVC).Aim. To determine an optimal approach to providing venous access during allo-HSCT.Materials and methods. This prospective, non-randomised, single-centre study included 146 patients (70 men and 76 women, median age 37 years) who underwent the fi rst allo-HSCT. Prior to conditioning, one of the following CVCs was placed: Hickman or Leonard tunnelled double-lumen silicone catheters (BardAccessSystem); polyurethane non-tunnelled CVCs without (Certofi x Duo, B. Braun) or with an antibacterial coating (Certofi x Protect Duo, B. Braun). The following complications were recorded: early complications, mechanical complications, catheter-associated thrombosis (CAT), catheterrelated bloodstream infections (CRBSI), as well as catheter exit-site and tunnel infections.Results. A total of 320 CVCs were placed (146 prior to allo-HSCT and 174 in the post-transplant period); 259 of the CVCs were non-tunnelled and 61 were tunnelled. Non-tunnelled CVCs were used for 1–123 days (median 22 days), whereas tunnelled CVCs were implanted for 9–621 days (median 146 days). The use of non-tunnelled CVCs was associated with 2.7 % (1.0/1000 catheter days) of mechanical complications and 9 % of CAT (1.4 / 1000 catheter days). The use of tunnelled CVCs was associated with the following complications: accidental removal — 1 (1.6 %), catheter rupture — 4 (6.5 %), CAT — 5 (8.2 %) patients (0.3 / 1000 catheter days); 18 (29.5 %) patients exhibited catheter obstruction, with CVC function being restored in 14 (77.7 %) patients, whereas in 4 (22.3 %) patients the CVC was removed. The incidence of CRBSI associated with non-tunnelled and tunnelled CVCs was 4.4 and 1.5 per 1000 catheter days, respectively. The study revealed no significant differences in the probability of developing CRBSI between non-tunnelled CVCs with and without antibacterial coating (p = 0.298), as well as between non-tunnelled and tunnelled CVCs in the fi rst 28 days after the catheter placement (p = 0.424). The risk of developing CRBSI when using tunnelled CVCs increased after 150 days of use.Conclusion. Allo-HSCT can be performed using any CVC type. Our study revealed no advantages in employing nontunnelled CVCs with an antibacterial coating compared to those having no coating. Tunnelled CVCs (as opposed to nontunnelled ones) provide the opportunity to employ a single catheter throughout the entire transplantation and post-transplant period. It should be noted that tunnelled CVCs should not be used for more than 150 days, since prolonged use of such CVCs significantly increases the risk of infection.Conflict of interest: the authors declare no conflict of interest.Financial disclosure: the study had no sponsorship.

Feeding jejunostomy (FJ) is a common treatment to support patients with esophageal cancer after esophagectomy. However, severe FJ-related complications, such as bowel obstruction, occasionally occur. We investigated the ability of our simple, novel FJ technique, the “curtain method,” to prevent bowel obstruction. In laparoscopic surgery, the main mechanism of bowel obstruction involves torsion of the mesentery accompanied by migration of the intestine across the fixed FJ through the space surrounded by a triangle comprising the ligament of Treitz, fixed FJ, and spleen rather than adhesion. Our “curtain method” involves closure of this triangle zone with omentum, and the appearance of the lifted omentum resembles a curtain. Sixty patients treated with this modified FJ were retrospectively compared with 13 patients treated with conventional FJ in terms of the incidence of bowel obstruction, peritonitis, stoma site infection, and catheter obstruction. From 2013 to 2017, 60 patients underwent esophagectomy and gastric conduit reconstruction accompanied by modified laparoscopic FJ. The median observation period, including the period after tube removal, was 644 days. No FJ-associated bowel obstruction, the prevention of which was the primary aim, occurred in any patient. Likewise, no peritonitis or dislodgement occurred. Eight patients (13%) developed a stoma site infection with granulation. The feeding tube became occluded in 11 patients (18%); however, a new feeding tube was reinserted under fluoroscopy for all of these patients. From 2003 to 2012, 13 patients underwent conventional FJ. The median observation period was 387 days. Three patients (23%) developed bowel obstruction by torsion 71 to 134 days after the first surgery, and all were treated by emergency operations. Other FJ-related complications were not different from those in the modified FJ group. Our simple, novel technique, the “curtain method,” for prevention of laparoscopic FJ-associated bowel obstruction after esophagectomy is a safe additional surgery.

Dysfunction of different components within continuous-flow (CF) left ventricular assist device (LVAD) systems may cause adverse cardiovascular and end-organ sequelae. Outflow graft obstruction is a recognized type of LVAD component dysfunction. Ten patients were admitted and treated for LVAD outflow graft obstruction. Two of these patients subsequently developed recurrent outflow graft obstruction requiring reintervention; however, each reoccurrence was at a different site than the original obstruction. Thus, a total of 12 cases of obstruction were analyzed. The most common reasons for hospital admission were low flow LVAD alarms or decompensated heart failure. Presentation with outflow graft obstruction occurred an average of 3.0 years after LVAD implantation. Patients underwent echocardiographic evaluation at the time of admission. Left ventricular assist device component dysfunction was suspected based on echocardiographic findings, and follow-up contrast studies were used to establish the specific diagnosis of outflow graft stenosis. The majority of stenotic lesions (10/12) were treated percutaneously with balloon angioplasty and stenting with balloon-expandable endovascular prostheses. Postintervention, all patients had significant improvement in LVAD flow rates.

Introduction: Peripheral Intravenous catheterization is the most commonly used invasive treatment method in patients admitted to the hospitals, but it has some complications. The indwell time of catheter is one of the factors associated with the occurrence of complications, especially phlebitis. In spite of the instructions for replacing the catheters after 72 hours, sometimes the complications occur sooner. Thus early catheter replacement becomes necessary, and sometimes the catheter is replaced after 72 hours without any complication. Objective: This study aimed to determine the incidence of complications and related factors using Peripheral Intravenous (PI) catheters during 72 hours after insertion. Materials and Methods: This is an analytical cross-sectional study conducted on 154 patients of cardiac surgical wards selected using convenience sampling technique. The study instruments were phlebitis assessment and infiltration rate scale developed by the Infusion Nurses Society (INS). All Intravenous pathways were evaluated for data collection using these tools. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and statistical tests (Fisher’s exact-test and the Chi-squared test). Results: About 48.7% of the study patients did not have any complications during 72 hours of catheter placement, and the reason for the replacement of catheters after 72 hours was the hospital’s instructions. Complications that lead to catheter replacement before 72 h were phlebitis (24.7%), obstruction (14.3%), drug leakage outside of the catheter (2.6%), and drug leakage into the patient’s tissue (2.6%). Complications were significantly higher in women (P=0.013), and on the second day of catheterization compared to other days (P=0.0001). Conclusion: Since nearly half of the patients with catheters in this study had no complications after 72 hours, it seems that further studies should be done to reassess replacing uncomplicated catheters after 72 hours. In addition, complications of catheter insertion are more common in women than in men. This finding calls for more attention and care in this area.

Purpose To compare chest port (port)-related complication rates between right- and left-sided ports placed in adult oncologic patients with a history of right-sided port removal. Materials and Methods A retrospective chart review identified 90 adult oncologic patients with a history of right-sided port removal. Of these, 60 patients had a second port placed on the right side (right-side group), while 30 patients had a second port placed on the left side (left-side group). Median time between first port removal and second port placement was 217 days (range, 0–3808 days). Port-related complications included infection (port-site and/or bloodstream), mechanical, thrombotic, and port-site skin complications. Complication rates between groups were compared. Proportional subdistribution hazard regression (PSHREG) was conducted to determine if laterality of the second port is an independent risk factor for port-related complications. Results The cumulative follow-up period was 34,748 catheter-days (median, 233; range, 9–2162 days). Eleven patients (18.3%) in the right-side group and 2 patients (6.7%) in the left-side group had port-related complications (P = .21), accounting for complication rates of 0.5 and 0.2/1000 catheter-days (P = .24), respectively. No statistical difference was found in the incidence of infection (9/60 vs 1/30, P = .16), mechanical (0/60 vs. 1/30, P = .33), thrombotic (1/60 vs 0/30, P = 1.0), and skin-related (1/60 vs 0/30, P = 1.0) complications between groups. In multivariate PSHREG, laterality of the second port (hazard ratio = 3.09, 95% confidence interval = 0.81–11.76, P = .10) was not a significant risk factor for port-related complications. Conclusions In adult oncologic patients with a history of right-sided port removal, no significant differences in port-related complication rates were observed between right- and left-sided second ports.

Two major complications of indwelling urinary catheterisation include infection and mineral encrustation of the catheter. Our antimicrobial urinary catheter (AUC) impregnated with rifampicin, triclosan, and sparfloxacin has demonstrated long-term protective activity against major uropathogens. This study aimed to firstly assess the ability of the AUC to resist mineral encrustation in the presence and absence of bacteria. Secondly, it aimed to investigate the AUC’s anti-biofilm activity against multi-drug resistant organisms. There was no difference in surface roughness between AUC and control segments. In a static and a perfusion model, phosphate deposition was significantly reduced on AUCs challenged with P. mirabilis. Furthermore, none of the AUCs blocked during the 28 day test period, unlike controls. The AUC prevented colonisation by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing E. coli, and carbapenemase-producing E. coli for 12 consecutive weekly challenges. All three drugs impregnated into the catheter continued to exert protective activity throughout 12 weeks of constant perfusion. The drugs appear to migrate into the crystalline biofilm to continually protect against bacteria not it direct contact with the catheter surface. In conclusion, the AUC reduces mineral encrustation and may increase time to blockage in the presence of P. mirabilis, and does not predispose to mineral deposition under other conditions. It also offers 12 weeks of protection against multi-drug resistant bacteria. Statement of significance Infection and associated mineral encrustation of urinary catheters are two serious complications of indwelling urinary catheters. Others have attempted to address this through various technologies such as coatings, dips, and surface modifications to prevent infection and/or encrustation. However, all current ‘anti-infective’ urinary catheter technologies are limited to short-term use. Some patients with spinal injuries, multiple sclerosis, stroke survivors and others use long-term catheters for 4–12 weeks at a time with multiple catheterisation possibly throughout the rest of their life. We present a urinary catheter for long-term use that is impregnated with three antimicrobials by a patient-protected process to prevent infection and encrustation for up to 12 weeks, the maximum lifetime of a long-term catheter before it is changed.

BACKGROUND Peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter obstruction often leads to surgical revision and may require transition to hemodialysis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate risk factors (including omentectomy) associated with early PD catheter obstruction (

Large pyogenic liver abscess is a rare and difficult to treat entity in pediatric patients. Percutaneous drainage rather than open surgical drainage has become more common in recent years, even for large abscesses. Percutaneous drainage can be complicated by catheter obstruction. We present the case of a 16-year-old male presenting with abdominal pain, fever, and chills. He was diagnosed with a 9-centimeter liver abscess. A CT-guided percutaneous drainage was placed. The catheter initially drained well, but then became occluded. Tissue plasminogen activator was instilled into the catheter every 6 hours for a total of five doses, resulting in increased drainage and improved clinical state of the patient. To our knowledge, this is the first reported use of tissue plasminogen activator in pyogenic liver abscess in the pediatric population.

BACKGROUND The totally implanted vascular access device (TIVAD) is commonly used in patients with malignant tumors requiring chemotherapy or long-term intravenous infusion and those with difficulty placing peripheral venous catheters. It could also be used to draw blood in pediatric patients. Thus, how to maintain the patency and longevity of TIVAD is always emphasized. METHODS In this prospective study, TIVAD was randomly infused in patients under 18 years with three different concentrations of heparinized solutions: 10 mL with 100 U/ mL heparin, 20 mL with 10 U/mL heparin, and 30 mL with 10 U/mL heparin. RESULTS A total of 81 patients (46 males and 35 females) were enrolled in this study from Aug. 2, 2013, to Feb. 1, 2017. The mean age of those who received TIVAD implantation was 7.2 ± 5.3 years, and the mean duration of using TIVAD was 1027.6 ± 369.1 days. Patients without catheter occlusion events experienced significantly shorter hospitalizations, fewer admissions, and fewer punctures than those with catheter occlusion events (p < 0.05). The administration and frequency of blood transfusions, history of bacteremia, and medication history did not increase the risk of catheter occlusion, but puncture frequency increased this risk. In patients with catheter occlusion events (38/81, 46.9%), catheter patency was restored after instillation of urokinase solution. CONCLUSION In this study, the risk of TIVAD catheter occlusion was only related to puncture frequency regardless of the heparin flush composition or patient characteristics. A high puncture frequency of TIVAD during the 3.5-year study period significantly increased the risk of catheter occlusion. Besides, flushing and locking solutions for TIVAD using heparin at 10 U/mL was effective as using heparin at 100 U/mL regardless of the flushing volume of 10, 20 or 30 mL.

Introduction: Intraluminal thrombolytic therapy is the first step treatment of thrombotic malfunction of tunneled hemodialysis catheters (THC). The factors that affect catheter restoration and also catheter survival following thrombolytic therapy are not well described. In this study, we aimed to reveal the predictors that affect the success of the procedure and also present post-restoration catheter patency after intraluminal thrombolytic administration. Method: This retrospective study included 62 patients with tunneled THC thrombosis treated with alteplase between 2017 and2020 in the study center. Age, comorbidities, the use of antiplatelet and anticoagulants, a history of catheter thrombosis, time on dialysis, the duration of the catheter were investigated as possible predictors of procedural success. The independent predictive factors for procedural success were evaluated by using backward stepwise likelihood ratio logistic regression analysis. Primaryand assisted patencieswere presented with Kaplan-Meier graphs. Results: Thrombolityc was administered to 62 patients 102 times. The median primary patency from the first thrombolytic administration to a second catheter thrombosis was 9 months (range 1-20 months). The overall median patency was 12 months (range 2-23 months). The overall procedural success rate was 79.4% (81/102).Multivariate analyses revealed that a history of prior catheter thrombosis was the only risk factor for procedural success (OR: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.26-0.91; p = 0.004). The need for a second dwell time among patients with prior history of thrombolysis was significantly higher compared to patients without a history of catheter thrombosis (12/26 patients, 46.2% and 6/55 patients, 10.9%; respectively; p = 0.001). Conclusion: The success of thrombolysis in subsequent de novo THC thrombosis decreases in patients who previously required intraluminal thrombolytic administration. Identifying patient subgroups with a high risk for THC thrombosis may be useful to investigate effective secondary prevention strategies.

Measurement of intracranial pressure (ICP) during cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage with an external ventricular drain (EVD) typically requires stopping the flow during measurement. However, there may be benefits to simultaneous ICP measurement and CSF drainage. Several studies have evaluated whether accurate ICP measurements can be obtained while the EVD is open. They report differing outcomes when it comes to error, and hypothesize several sources of error. This study presents an investigation into the fluidic sources of error for ICP measurement with concurrent drainage in an EVD. Our experiments and analytical model both show that the error in pressure measurement increases linearly with flow rate and is not clinically significant, regardless of drip chamber height. At physiologically relevant flow rates (40 mL/hr) and ICP set points (13.6 - 31.3 cmH2O or 10 - 23 mmHg), our model predicts an underestimation of 0.767 cmH2O (0.56 mmHg) with no observed data point showing error greater than 1.09 cmH2O (0.8 mmHg) in our experiment. We extrapolate our model to predict a realistic worst-case clinical scenario where we expect to see a mean maximum error of 1.06 cmH2O (0.78 mmHg) arising from fluidic effects within the drainage system for the most resistive catheter. Compared to other sources of error in current ICP monitoring, error in pressure measurement due to drainage flow is small and does not prohibit clinical use. However, other effects such as ventricular collapse or catheter obstruction could affect ICP measurement under continuous drainage and are not investigated in this study.

2 billion peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVC) are inserted into inpatients worldwide each year. Almost one in two PIVCs fail before completion of intravenous therapy. We aimed to determine the efficacy and costs of a multimodal intervention to reduce PIVC failure among hospitalised patients.PREBACP was a cluster-randomised, controlled trial done at seven public hospitals in Spain. Clusters (hospital wards) had at least 70% permanent staff and data were collected from patients aged 18 years and older with one or more PIVCs at the start of intravenous therapy. Clusters were randomly assigned (1:1) to the multimodal intervention or control group using a centralised, web-based randomisation software, and stratified by type of setting. We concealed randomisation to allocation, without masking patients or professionals to the intervention. An intervention using a multimodal model and dissemination of protocols, education for health-care professionals and patients, and feedback on performance was implemented for 12 months in the intervention group. The control group received usual care. The primary outcome was all-cause PIVC failure at 12 months (phlebitis, extravasation, obstruction, or infections). Subsequently, through an amendment to the protocol approved on July 25, 2021, we included dislodgement as part of PIVC failure. Analysis was by modified intention to treat, which included all randomly assigned hospital wards for whom data on the primary endpoint were available. This trial is registered with the ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN10438530.Between Jan 1, 2019, and March 1, 2020, we randomly assigned 22 eligible clusters to receive the multimodal intervention (n=11 clusters; 2196 patients, 2235 PIVCs, and 131 nurses) or usual practice in the control group (n=11 clusters; 2282 patients, 2330 PIVCs, and 138 nurses). At 12 months, the proportion of PIVC failures was lower in the intervention group than in the control group (37·10% [SD 1·32], HR 0·81 [95% CI 0·72 to 0·92] vs 46·49% [2·59], HR 1·23 [1·04 to 1·39]; mean difference -9·39% [95% CI -11·22 to -7·57]; p0·0001). Per-protocol-prespecified analysis of the primary outcome excluding dislodgement also showed the intervention significantly reduced PIVC failure compared with the control group at 12 months (33·47% [SD 2·98], HR 0·85 [95% CI 0·75 to 0·96] vs 41·06% [4·62], HR 1·18 [1·04 to 1·33]; mean difference -7·59% [95% CI -11·05 to -4·13]; p0·0001).A multimodal intervention reduced PIVC failure, thereby reducing potentially serious complications for hospitalised patients. The findings of PREBACP enabled a deeper understanding of decision making, knowledge mobilisation, and sense making in routine clinical practice.The College of Nurses of the Balearic Islands.For the Spanish translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Objective To look at best evidence and expert opinion to provide advice in the form of a consensus statement lead by Female, Neurological and Urodynamic Urology (FNUU) section of the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) in conjunction with the British Association of Urological Nurses (BAUN). Methods Initially a literature search was performed with incorporation of aspects of the existing guidance and further informed by UK best practice by core members of the group. The document then underwent reviews by the FNUU Executive Committee members, the BAUN executive committee, a separate experienced urologist and presented at the BAUS annual meeting 2020 to ensure wider feedback was incorporated in the document. Results Complications of long-term indwelling catheters include catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI), purple urine bag syndrome, catheter blockages, bladder spasms (causing pain and urinary leakage), loss of bladder capacity, urethral erosion ("catheter hypospadias")/dilatation of bladder outlet and chronic inflammation (metaplasia and cancer risk). Conclusions We have provided a list of recommendations and a troubleshooting table to help with the management of the complications of long term catheters.

Background Implantation of ventricular catheters (VCs) to drain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a standard approach to treat hydrocephalus. VCs fail frequently due to tissue obstructing the lumen via the drainage holes. Mechanisms driving obstruction are poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the histological features of VC obstructions and identify links to clinical factors. Methods 343 VCs with relevant clinical data were collected from five centers. Each hole on the VCs was classified by degree of tissue obstruction after macroscopic analysis. A subgroup of 54 samples was analyzed using immunofluorescent labelling, histology and immunohistochemistry. Results 61.5% of the 343 VCs analyzed had tissue aggregates occluding at least one hole (n = 211) however the vast majority of the holes (70%) showed no tissue aggregates. Mean age at which patients with occluded VCs had their first surgeries (3.25 yrs) was lower than in patients with non-occluded VCs (5.29 yrs, p Conclusion Our data show that age of the first surgery and length of time a VC is implanted are factors that influence the degree of VC obstruction. The tissue aggregates obstructing VCs are composed predominantly of astrocytes and macrophages; microglia have a relatively small presence.

Background: Laparoscopic enteral-feeding access is the best option for patients with advanced upper gastrointestinal, oropharyngeal, and laryngeal cancers needing to maintain their caloric intake before surgery or during chemoradiotherapy. Methods: During a laparoscopic procedure by a cystostomy catheter system, a jejunostomy tube was placed for 14 patients. All the patients had a 2-month follow-up for complications and performance of the feeding system. Results: Based on the obtained results, there was no internal leak and peritonitis among the subjects. One patient converted to an open procedure due to perforation during the procedure. In three patients, the extraction of the catheter was encountered during the follow-up period and a replacement was required. One case of wound infection and one case of catheter obstruction occurred among the subjects. Catheter obstruction was easily resolved using warm water and pancreatic enzyme irrigation. There was one patient with partial intestinal obstruction who was managed through nonoperative means. No significant bleeding was encountered during the surgery. Conclusion: Laparoscopic jejunostomy with this method is simple and cost-effective and can be performed within an acceptable timeframe with minimum complications. It is the procedure of choice for upper GI and laryngeal cancer patients, those at increased risk of aspiration, and subjects not candidates of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. Reference

BACKGROUND Children with intestinal failure (IF) require parenteral nutrition (PN) at home, delivered through a central venous catheter (CVC) to support growth. CVC-related complications including infection, breakage, and blockage are the most common cause of readmission to the hospital. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of instructional videos as part of the caregiver home PN-teaching program to reduce CVC-related complications. METHODS Caregivers of children with IF requiring home PN were surveyed to assess skill confidence and interest in instructional videos for skill acquisition. Videos were then created using a smartphone and free video-editing software. Input from stakeholders (families, care providers) was incorporated in video production. Families were given access to the videos, and CVC-related complications were compared for 2 years prior to and 1 year following video introduction with Welch t-test analysis. RESULTS After obtaining ethics approval, 11 caregivers were surveyed. Thirty percent reported feeling underconfident in their skills at the time of discharge. After viewing the videos, 100% of caregivers reported that these videos were useful. Catheter-related complication rates significantly decreased in the year following the video introduction from 7.88 to 2.65 complications per 1000 catheter days (P = .046). This included reductions in catheter-related infections, catheter occlusions, and breakages. CONCLUSIONS Children with IF receiving home PN are at high risk for CVC-related complications, and caregivers are the first line of defense for catheter care. Instructional videos were low-cost to create, were well received by all families, and may contribute to reduced catheter-related complications.

Background Urgent-start peritoneal dialysis (PD), defined as initiation of PD within two weeks of catheter insertion, has been emerging as an alternative mode of dialysis initiation for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) requiring urgent dialysis without established permanent dialysis access. Recently, several small studies have reported comparable patient outcomes between urgent-start and conventional-start PD. Objectives To examine the benefits and harms of urgent-start PD compared with conventional-start PD in adults and children with CKD requiring long-term kidney replacement therapy. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies up to 25 May 2020 through contact with the Information Specialist using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov. For non-randomised controlled trials, MEDLINE (OVID) (1946 to 27 June 2019), EMBASE (OVID) (1980 to 27 June 2019), Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov (up to 27 June 2019) were searched. Selection criteria All randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs comparing the outcomes of urgent-start PD (within 2 weeks of catheter insertion) and conventional-start PD ( ≥ 2 weeks of catheter insertion) treatment in children and adults CKD patients requiring long-term dialysis were included. Studies without a control group were excluded. Data collection and analysis Data were extracted and quality of studies were examined by two independent authors. The authors contacted investigators for additional information. Summary estimates of effect were examined using random-effects model and results were presented as risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) as appropriate for the data. The certainty of evidence for individual outcome was assessed using the GRADE approach. Main results A total of 16 studies (2953 participants) were included in this review, which included one multicentre RCT (122 participants) and 15 non-RCTs (2831 participants): 13 cohort studies (2671 participants) and 2 case-control studies (160 participants). The review included unadjusted data for analyses due to paucity of studies reporting adjusted data. In low certainty evidence, urgent-start PD may increase dialysate leak (1 RCT, 122 participants: RR 3.90, 95% CI 1.56 to 9.78) compared with conventional-start PD which translated into an absolute number of 210 more leaks per 1000 (95% CI 40 to 635). In very low certainty evidence, it is uncertain whether urgent-start PD increases catheter blockage (4 cohort studies, 1214 participants: RR 1.33, 95% CI 0.40 to 4.43; 2 case-control studies, 160 participants: RR 1.89, 95% CI 0.58 to 6.13), catheter malposition (6 cohort studies, 1353 participants: RR 1.63, 95% CI 0.80 to 3.32; 1 case-control study, 104 participants: RR 3.00, 95% CI 0.64 to 13.96), and PD dialysate flow problems (3 cohort studies, 937 participants: RR 1.44, 95% CI 0.34 to 6.14) compared to conventional-start PD. In very low certainty evidence, it is uncertain whether urgent-start PD increases exit-site infection (2 cohort studies, 337 participants: RR 1.43, 95% CI 0.24 to 8.61; 1 case-control study, 104 participants RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.41 to 3.50), exit-site bleeding (1 RCT, 122 participants: RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.03 to 16.81; 1 cohort study, 27 participants: RR 1.58, 95% CI 0.07 to 35.32), peritonitis (7 cohort studies, 1497 participants: RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.46; 2 case-control studies, participants: RR 1.09, 95% CI 0.12 to 9.51), catheter readjustment (2 cohort studies, 739 participants: RR 1.27, 95% CI 0.40 to 4.02), or reduces technique survival (1 RCT, 122 participants: RR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.20; 8 cohort studies, 1668 participants: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.07; 2 case-control studies, 160 participants: RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.06). In very low certainty evidence, it is uncertain whether urgent-start PD compared with conventional-start PD increased death (any cause) (1 RCT, 122 participants: RR 1.49, 95% CI 0.87 to 2.53; 7 cohort studies, 1509 participants: RR 1.89, 95% CI 1.07 to 3.3; 1 case-control study, 104 participants: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.27 to 3.02; very low certainty evidence). None of the included studies reported on tunnel tract infection. Authors' conclusions In patients with CKD who require dialysis urgently without ready-to-use dialysis access in place, urgent-start PD may increase the risk of dialysate leak and has uncertain effects on catheter blockage, malposition or readjustment, PD dialysate flow problems, infectious complications, exit-site bleeding, technique survival, and patient survival compared with conventional-start PD.

A major cause of hydrocephalus shunt failure is cell adhesion and obstruction of shunt catheter holes. An estimated 50% of pediatric shunts fail in the first 2 years of insertion, decreasing cell attachment and catheter obstruction can prolong the lifetime and effectiveness of the device. From previous studies, it was shown that treatment of the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) surface of a standard catheter with an N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC/1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylanimopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride/N-hydroxysuccinimide) layer increases the wettability of the surface and has been shown to decrease cell adhesion. Other studies indicate that NAC's antioxidant behavior induces glutathione and in turn modulates cell inflammatory pathways. The current study explores the longevity of the NAC coating from the surface of the catheter over time and shows its effect on valve function. Using SEM imaging, contact angle testing, and nanodrop spectrophotometry, this release was quantified for shunt samples incubated for 0, 10, 30, 60, and 90 days. Contact angle showed a significant increase in wettability of the surface when shunts were treated with NAC, confirming successful surface modification. Pressure assays determined that if the coating is release it had no detrimental downstream effects, such as on the shunt valve mechanism. SEM imaging revealed slight deformations in surface coating indicative of salt deposition on the modified shunt samples, while nanodrop spectrophotometry and contact angle data trends suggested some discharge of the NAC coating from the catheter surfaces. The effects of NAC on cell activity may transform the way hydrocephalus is treated in the future by increasing the longevity of the shunt to protect from obstruction.

The use of tunneled cuffed catheters (TCCs) for permanent blood access is increasing as the hemodialysis population ages. However, the higher mortality and complication rates associated with their use have been significant concerns. This single-center observational cohort study aimed to investigate clinical factors affecting mortality and complications in Japanese hemodialysis patients with a TCC. We enrolled 64 consecutive patients receiving hemodialysis through a TCC between 2012 and 2019. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality and the secondary outcome was the incidence of catheter-related complications at 2 years. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine variables associated with these outcomes. At 2 years, death from any cause and catheter-related complications occurred in 27/64 (42%) and 23/64 (36%) patients, respectively. There were 14 bacteremia events, 7 catheter obstructions, and 8 instances of restricted blood flow. Multivariate analysis showed that systolic blood pressure (SBP)

Background Indwelling tunneled pleural catheters (IPCs) are used regularly for recurrent pleural effusion management. Catheter obstruction is not uncommon, often requiring intrapleural medications instillation (ie, alteplase) to restore flow. The safety profile of intrapleural medications has been reported previously; however, most studies exclude anticoagulated patients. Research Question What is the safety profile of intrapleural alteplase, dornase alfa, or both when used in patients with IPCs, including in those who may be undergoing active anticoagulation? Study Design and Methods Retrospective review of patients with previously placed IPCs from January 2009 through February 2020 undergoing intrapleural alteplase therapy. Basic demographics, laboratory studies, anticoagulation medication use, and complications were collected. Descriptive statistics were used to report demographics and outcomes. Univariate Firth’s logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with complications, followed by multivariate regression analyses. Results A total of 94 patients underwent IPC placement and intrapleural instillation. The median age of patients was 66.1 years (interquartile range, 57.6-74.9 years). Intrapleural medications were administered 71 times in 30 anticoagulated patients and 172 times in 64 patients who were not anticoagulated. A total of 20 complications were identified in 18 patients, with one patient experiencing more than one complication. Five bleeding complications occurred with no significant increased risk with anticoagulation use (in 2 anticoagulated patients and 3 patients who were not anticoagulated; P = .092). Multivariate Firth’s logistic regression demonstrated that alteplase dose (P = .04) and anticoagulation use (P = .05) were associated with any complication, but were not associated with bleeding complications. Interpretation We report a relatively low incidence of complications and, in particular, bleeding complications in patients receiving intrapleural alteplase for nondraining IPCs. Bleeding episodes occurred in five of 94 patients (5.3%) with no apparent increased risk of bleeding complication, regardless of whether receiving anticoagulation. Additional study is warranted to identify risk factors for complications, in particular bleeding complications, in this patient population.

Background: Recently, some studies have shown that prolonging flush interval is safe and feasible for patients who complete chemotherapy. However, there is no consensus about the optimal flush interval for those patients. Objective: The purpose of this review was to evaluate whether the flush interval could be prolonged based on monthly interval for regular maintenance and to explore the optimal flush interval. Data sources: We searched the following databases for articles published between 1 January 1982 and 21 February 2020: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Ovid. Study eligibility criteria: Randomized controlled trials, retrospective and prospective cohort studies of flush interval less than 4 weeks versus longer than 4 weeks for patients who completed chemotherapy, were included. Results: Two reviewers extracted information and assessed the quality of the articles independently. In total, 389 articles were retrieved, and 4 studies including 862 cases fulfilled the inclusion criteria. There was no statistical heterogeneity ( I2 = 0, p > 0.05) among the included studies. Hence, the fixed-effects model was used for the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed that the total complication rate associated with longer than 4-week interval was higher than that associated with less than 4-week interval. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference between the two groups (7.2% vs 7.6%, p = 0.83). Moreover, the meta-analysis showed that the total complication and catheter occlusion rates associated with the 4-week interval were higher than those associated with the 8-week interval. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups (total complications: 11.4% vs 9.5%, p = 0.68; catheter occlusions: 4.9% vs 4.1%, p = 0.89). Limitations: Only four non-randomized controlled studies were included, and the outcomes of the included studies were reported incompletely. Conclusion: Extending the flush interval to longer than 4 weeks is safe and feasible. Based on previous studies, extending the flush interval to 8 weeks might not increase the incidence of total complications and catheter occlusions. However, there is no conclusion on whether the flush interval could be extended to 3 months or longer.

Central venous access devices have revolutioned the care of children affected by malignancies, facilitating management of complex and prolonged infusive therapies, reducing pain and discomfort related to repeated blood samples and indiscriminate venipunctures, thus reducing also psychological stress of both patients and families. In this respect, peripherally inserted central catheters have been disseminated for use, even in pediatric oncology patients, for their many advantages: easy and non-invasive placement with no risk of insertion-related complications, as well as easy removal; reduced need for general anesthesia both for insertion and removal; adequate prolonged performance also for challenging therapies (e.g. stem cell transplantation); and low rate of late complications. Nonetheless, concerns have been recently raised about use of such devices in children with cancer, especially regarding a presumed (but not demonstrated) high risk of catheter-related venous thrombosis. Are we facing a new witch (or peripherally inserted central catheter) hunt? The choice of the central venous access device—particularly in oncologic children—should be based on an evaluation of clinical advantages and risks, as provided by appropriate and scientifically accurate clinical studies.

At present, central venous access devices (CVADs) are widely used in clinical practice. The reasons for CVAD obstruction caused by precipitated medication or lipids are increasingly complex. However, there is no clear treatment program for CVAD obstruction caused by precipitated medication or lipids. The target of this study was to analyze data regarding obstruction caused by precipitated medication or lipids in CVADs and to calculate the efficacy of different treatment methods. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted in alignment with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. The PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and China National Knowledge Internet databases were searched for original research published before 2018. There were 1356 publications initially screened, with one additional study identified through snowballing. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. The reasons for obstruction, except for clot formation, primarily included the following: mechanical complications; lipid deposition; mineral deposition; or drug precipitation. Meta-analysis showed that sodium hydroxide resulted in the highest recanalization rate in lipid deposition, followed by ethanol, and the difference was significant. The efficacy analysis revealed that hydrochloric acid and l-cysteine have similar effects on mineral deposition and drug precipitation. According to this review, the most effective methodology was shown to be the intravenous perfusion of sodium hydroxide in several treatments when the obstruction is caused by lipid deposition. In contrast, mineral deposition and drug deposition are best treated with l-cysteine to recover the patency of central venous access devices.

Background and Aims The success of peritoneal dialysis (PD) depends on a functional and sustainable peritoneal access. The mechanical complications of PD (MCPD) are a major cause of technique failure. The aim of the study was to determine the different types of these complications and to define their prevalence. Method It’s a retrospective study conducted in our PD unit in December 2019. We collected all data concerning clinical characteristics of all patients currently in PD, as well as incidence, type, outcome of MCPD. Results There were 90 patients with an average age of 45 years (extremes: 20.5 years and 80.6 years). The sex ratio is 1.25. Fourteen were diabetic (15.5%). All patients were on Automated PD (APD) except one on Continuous Ambulatory PD (CAPD). The average duration of PD was 40.5 months. The average body mass index (BMI) was 23,8 kg/m? All patients had a Tenckhoff 2 cuff catheter placed by a mini laparotomy. Twenty six episodes of MCPD were noted in 17 patients (18,8%).The complications noted were early dialysate leakage in 2 patients(2,2%) spontaneously resolving before the beginning of the training, catheter obstruction in 8 patients(3 patients presented 3 episodes of obstruction each) (8,8%), umbilical hernia in 3 patients (3,3%), 2 patients had displaced repositioned catheter (2,2%). Five patients (5,5%) presented continued inflammation in the exit-site of the catheter: the outermost of the two Dacron cuffs spontaneously extruded in 2 patients, and was surgically extracted in 3 patients. Cuff externalization resolved the inflammation in all patients. Conclusion Successful access for PD placed by a trained operator is crucial in purpose to avoid MCPD. These complications must be treated on time to avoid technique failure.

Background Flushing and locking of totally implantable venous access devices (TIVADs) is recommended to maintain their patency when not in use. Although manufacturers' recommendations indicate monthly access for TIVAD maintenance, there is a tendency in real life to prolong this interval. Objectives To assess the effectiveness of prolonged versus short flushing and locking intervals to prevent TIVAD occlusions in adults with cancer. Methods A systematic search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently selected studies, assessed quality, and extracted data. Study findings were summarized, and a meta-analysis conducted. Results Six articles were included in the review, with a total of 1255 participants. Differences in types of cancers, flushing and locking techniques, and volume and concentration of heparin were described. Pooled results from 4 studies showed fewer catheter occlusions in favor of prolonged flushing and locking intervals (relative risk, 0.81), even if not statistically significant (95% confidence interval, 0.41-1.61) with no heterogeneity among studies (I = 0.00%, P = .69). The quality of evidence was very low. Conclusions Very low-quality evidence suggests that prolonged schedule flushing and locking intervals has no effect on catheter patency. However, because of low number and poor quality of evidence derived from the studies analyzed, findings of this meta-analysis should be interpreted with caution. Implications for practice No statistically significant difference in occlusion rate between short and long timing of flushing was found. However, further studies are necessary to strengthen the safe implementation of longer intervals in clinical practice.