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Thromboembolic complications with silicone elastomer subclavian catheters
JPEN. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Silicone catheters reduce but do not eliminate central venous thrombosis risk during parenteral nutrition. This study found a 4% incidence of symptomatic and asymptomatic thrombosis, with potential for pulmonary embolism.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Vascular Surgery
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Central venous thrombosis is a known risk with plastic catheters during parenteral nutrition, occurring in up to 33% of cases.
- Silicone elastomer catheters offer better handling and are less thrombogenic, leading to their increased use in parenteral nutrition.
Observation:
- This study evaluated 118 silicone elastomer subclavian catheters used for parenteral nutrition.
- Two cases of clinically apparent catheter-related thrombosis occurred, one with pulmonary embolism.
- Phlebography on 28 silastic catheters revealed one asymptomatic, non-occlusive thrombus.
Findings:
- The incidence of symptomatic and asymptomatic catheter-related thrombosis with silicone catheters was approximately 4%.
- Catheter malplacement, infection, and coagulation issues were ruled out as causes.
- Thrombosis occurred in catheters used for parenteral nutrition for 20 and 28 days.
Implications:
- Silicone catheters can decrease, but not completely prevent, catheter-related thrombosis.
- Catheter-related thrombosis, even with silicone materials, poses a risk for major pulmonary thromboembolism.
- Further research into minimizing thrombosis risk with long-term catheter use is warranted.