[Medial venous catheter or midline (MVC)]

Area of Science:

• Vascular Access Devices
• Infusion Therapy
• Patient Safety

Context:

• Growing emphasis on patient quality of life and cost reduction in clinical practice.
• Need for alternatives to traditional intravenous (IV) therapy to minimize complications associated with venous catheters.
• Advancements in medical devices offer improved patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.

Purpose:

• To explore midline venous catheters as a viable alternative to traditional IV therapy.
• To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and benefits of midline catheters in extending infusion therapy duration.
• To compare midline catheters with short peripheral IVs and central venous catheters regarding complications and suitability.

Summary:

• Midline catheters are peripheral venous access devices (8-25 cm) typically placed in upper arm veins, ending below the axillary line.
• They are suitable for infusions lasting 2-6 weeks, compatible with solutions (pH 5-9, osmolarity <500 mOsm), and do not require a chest X-ray for placement confirmation.
• Associated with lower rates of phlebitis than short peripheral IVs and reduced infection risk compared to central lines, utilizing techniques like ultrasound-guided Seldinger.

Impact:

• Midline catheters represent a safe, efficient, and cost-effective option for intravenous therapy, improving patient care and reducing the need for serial short peripheral IVs.
• Their use can be considered early in treatment plans, especially for therapies exceeding seven days with low-irritant fluids.
• Facilitates extended infusion therapy in various settings, including acute care and home care, enhancing patient comfort and venous preservation.