Related Experiment Videos
Power injection of peripherally inserted central catheters
1Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, USA.
Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology : JVIR
|October 6, 1997
Summary
This study found that larger peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), made of silicone or polyurethane, can safely tolerate power injection of contrast media. Specific catheter sizes and materials demonstrated varying safe injection rates and pressures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Radiology
- Vascular Access
Background:
- Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are widely used for long-term vascular access.
- Power injection of contrast agents is common in medical imaging procedures.
- Catheter material and size may influence tolerance to high-pressure injections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the pressure and flow rate tolerance of different peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs).
- To assess the suitability of various PICC sizes and materials for power injection of radiographic contrast agents.
Main Methods:
- Eight silicone and five polyurethane single-lumen PICC models were tested.
- Catheters were subjected to power injection of iothalamate 60% at increasing rates.
- Tolerated and bursting rates and pressures were recorded.
Main Results:
- Significant variation in tolerated rates and pressures was observed based on catheter inner/outer diameters and material.
- Silicone PICCs tolerated rates from 0.4 to 7.0 mL/sec; polyurethane PICCs tolerated 0.6 to 10.2 mL/sec.
- Larger diameter PICCs (5-F silicone, 4-F/5-F polyurethane) tolerated rates >4 mL/sec, with pressures ranging from 107-184 psi for silicone and 160-314 psi for polyurethane.
Conclusions:
- Certain larger single-lumen silicone and polyurethane PICCs demonstrate adequate tolerance for power injection of contrast agents.
- Catheter material and dimensions are critical factors in determining safe power injection capabilities.