Catheter-related septic central venous thrombosis--current therapeutic options

Central venous catheter-related infection and evidence for central venous thrombosis developed in five patients. On the basis of ongoing bacteremia after catheter removal and venographic confirmation, catheter-related septic central venous thrombosis (CR-SCVT) was confirmed. These patients were treated successfully with anticoagulation and antibiotics; none required surgical exploration or drainage.CR-SCVT is a complication of modern venous access techniques and is easily confused with sepsis from other anatomic sites. Even when recognized antemortem, CR-SCVT carries an excessive morbidity and mortality. The therapy for this complication is not standardized, but catheter removal, anticoagulation and a prolonged course of antibiotics are appropriate initial therapy. Surgical vein ligation or excision are reserved for refractory sepsis or abscess formation.