Maximum infusion rates and CVP accuracy during high-flow delivery through multilumen catheters

Flow rates and pressure recording accuracy were compared for Argyle 14-, 16-, and 18-ga double-lumen and Edwards 7-Fr triple-lumen CVP catheters. Physiologic saline solution was pressure-infused into dogs through one lumen and CVP was measured via the other lumen. CVP accuracy was unaltered by simultaneous rapid infusion in either the double-lumen or triple-lumen catheters. In a separate in vitro experiment, physiologic saline and blood were pressurized at 100 to 400 mm Hg and infused through each port, and volume delivery per minute was measured. Only the 14-ga double-lumen catheter was adequate for the administration of a large amount of crystalloid solution. However, it was not large enough to permit the rapid infusion of blood. On the other hand, large volumes of both crystalloid and whole blood could be delivered through the 7-Fr triple-lumen catheter.