Peripheral long lines in cystic fibrosis

Improved cannula survival with peripheral long lines has been reported for patients requiring multiple courses of intravenous (i.v.) antibiotics, allowing a more normal and mobile pattern of life (1, 2). Since June 1992 we have used both the neonatal silastic long line (Epicutaneo-cava-catheter, Vygon, Aachen) and the Landmark catheter (Menlo Care, California) for administration of i.v. antibiotics to our cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Information was collected prospectively on the performance of both types of cannulae over 18 months. Cannula survival time was the same and longer than with conventional short cannulae (1, 3). Patient preference for the neonatal line and a trend towards more phlebitis with the Landmark catheter resulted in the selection of the neonatal line for routine use.