Incidence of central vein stenosis and occlusion following upper extremity PICC and port placement

Vertebral Venous Congestion That May Mimic Vertebral Metastasis on Contrast-Enhanced Chest Computed Tomography in Chemoport Inserted Patients

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of vertebral venous congestion (VVC) in patients with chemoport insertion, evaluate the imaging characteristics of nodular VVC, and identify the factors associated with VVC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective single-center study was based on follow-up contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) of 1412 adult patients who underwent chemoport insertion between January 2016 and December 2016. The prevalence of venous stenosis, reflux, and VVC were evaluated. The imaging features of nodular VVC, including specific locations within the vertebral body, were analyzed. To identify the factors associated with VVC, patients with VVC were compared with a subset of patients without VVC who had been followed up for > 3 years without developing VVC after chemoport insertion. Toward this, a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed.

RESULTS

After excluding 333 patients, 1079 were analyzed (mean age ± standard deviation, 62.3 ± 11.6 years; 540 females). The prevalence of VVC was 5.8% (63/1079), with all patients (63/63) demonstrating vertebral venous reflux and 67% (42/63) with innominate vein stenosis. The median interval between chemoport insertion and VVC was 515 days (interquartile range, 204-881 days). The prevalence of nodular VVC was 1.5% (16/1079), with a mean size of 5.9 ± 3.1 mm and attenuation of 784 ± 162 HU. Nodular VVC tended to be located subcortically. Forty-four patients with VVC underwent CT examinations with contrast injections in both arms; the VVC disappeared in 70% (31/44) when the contrast was injected in the arm contralateral to the chemoport site. Bevacizumab use was independently associated with VVC (odds ratio, 3.45; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of VVC and nodular VVC was low in patients who underwent chemoport insertion. Nodular VVC was always accompanied by vertebral venous reflux and tended to be located subcortically. To avoid VVC, contrast injection in the arm contralateral to the chemoport site is preferred.

Safety of non-cuffed tunneled central venous catheters in adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are the most common route of intravenous (I.V.) access for treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) pulmonary exacerbations, but repeated PICC placement can result in upper extremity peripheral venous stenosis. Once peripheral stenosis develops, a non-cuffed tunneled central venous catheter (NcTCVC) is an alternative route for IV access. While these are regularly used at some CF centers, the safety and complication rate compared to PICCs in adults with CF has not been reported. This study aims to describe the safety of NcTCVCs in adults with CF.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed at a CF Foundation accredited institution including adults with CF who received NcTCVCs in interventional radiology from 7/19/2007 to 3/09/2020. Complications analyzed included catheter related deep venous thrombosis (DVT), central line associated blood stream infection (CLABSI), and catheter related central venous stenosis. Complications were considered attributable if they occurred while the catheter was in place or within 30 days of catheter removal.

RESULTS

During the study duration, 386 NcTCVCs were placed in 60 unique patients (55 % female) with a mean of 6.4 catheters per patient. Majority of NcTCVCs placed were 4 French (61.4 %). Average duration of indwelling NcTCVC was 16.2 days. No patients demonstrated catheter attributable symptomatic DVT. The incidence of DVT, CLABSI, and central venous stenosis was 0 (0 %), 4 (1 %), and 1 (0.3 %), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Many adults with CF have required insertion of numerous PICCs for the treatment of recurrent pulmonary exacerbations. In those adults that develop PICC-associated peripheral vein stenosis precluding PICC placement, these results indicate NcTCVCs are a safe alternative.

Central vein stenosis in hemodialysis vascular access: clinical manifestations and contemporary management strategies

Central venous stenosis is a significant and frequently encountered problem in managing hemodialysis (HD) patients. Venous hypertension, often accompanied by severe symptoms, undermines the integrity of the hemodialysis access circuit. In central venous stenosis, dialysis through an arteriovenous fistula is usually inefficient, with high recirculation rates and prolonged bleeding after dialysis. Central vein stenosis is a known complication of indwelling intravascular and cardiac devices, such as peripherally inserted central catheters, long-term cuffed hemodialysis catheters, and pacemaker wires. Hence, preventing this challenging condition requires minimization of central venous catheter use. Endovascular interventions are the primary approach for treating central vein stenosis. Percutaneous angioplasty and stent placement may reestablish vascular function in cases of elastic and recurrent lesions. Currently, there is no consensus on the optimal treatment, as existing management approaches have a wide range of patency rates.

Midline catheters in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Midline catheters (midlines) are increasingly used in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD).

OBJECTIVE

This study describes current practice and acute complications associated with midlines in CKD patients.

DESIGNS, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Trained abstractors at 66 hospitals from the Michigan Hospital Medicine Safety (HMS) Consortium collected data on a sample of patients who received a midline during hospitalization. Patients were classified as having advanced CKD if their estimated glomerular filtration rate was <45 mL/min/1.73 m2 .

MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES

Midline recipients with advanced CKD were compared to those without advanced CKD by patient, provider, and device characteristics, and by the occurrence of acute complications including major (e.g., upper extremity deep vein thrombosis [UE-DVT] and catheter-related bloodstream infection [CRBSI]) or minor (e.g., catheter occlusion, catheter dislodgement, infiltration, superficial thrombophlebitis, and leaking at insertion site) events. Multivariable mixed effects logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between catheter-related complications and stage of CKD.

RESULTS

Of 21,415 midline recipients, 5272 (24.6%) had advanced CKD, while 16,143 (75.4%) did not. Most midlines were single lumen (90.5%) and remained in place for a median of 6 days. A major or minor midline complication occurred in 804 (15.3%) patients with and 2239 (14.4%) patients without advanced CKD (adjusted odds ratios = 1.04; 95% confidence interval: 0.94-1.14). Among patients with advanced CKD, CRBSI occurred in 13 patients (0.2%) and UE-DVT occurred in 65 patients (1.2%). The proportion of advanced CKD among midline recipients and the frequency of midline-related complications varied across hospitals (interquartile range [IQR] = 19.2% to 29.8% [median = 25.0%] and IQR = 11.0%-18.9% [median = 15.4%], respectively).

A surgical method to be reminded for the treatment of symptomatic ipsilateral central venous occlusions in patients with hemodialysis access: Axillo-axillary venous bypass case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

In this case report, we present two chronic hemodialysis patients with upper extremity swelling due to central venous occlusions together with their clinical presentation, surgical management and brief review of the literature.

METHODS

The first patient who was a 63-year-old female patient with a history of multiple bilateral arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) was referred to our clinic. Physical examination demonstrated a functioning right brachio-cephalic AVF, with severe edema of the right arm, dilated venous collaterals, facial edema, and unilateral breast enlargement. In her history, multiple ipsilateral subclavian venous catheterizations were present for sustaining temporary hemodialysis access. The second patient was a 47-year-old male with a history of failed renal transplant, CABG surgery, multiple AV fistula procedures from both extremities, leg amputation caused by peripheral arterial disease, and decreased myocardial functions. He was receiving 3/7 hemodialysis and admitted to our clinic with right arm edema, accompanied by pain, stiffness, and skin hyperpigmentation symptoms ipsilateral to a functioning brachio-basilic AVF. He was not able to flex his arms, elbow, or wrist due to severe edema.

RESULTS

Venography revealed right subclavian vein stenosis with patent contralateral central veins in the first patient. She underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) twice with subsequent re-occlusions. After failed attempts of PTA, the patient was scheduled for axillo-axillary venous bypass in order to preserve the AV access function. In second patient, venography revealed right subclavian vein occlusion caused secondary to the subclavian venous catheters. Previous attempts for percutaneously crossing the chronic subclavian lesion failed multiple times by different centers. Hence, the patient was scheduled for axillo-axillary venous bypass surgery.

CONCLUSION

In case of chronic venous occlusions, endovascular procedures may be ineffective. Since preserving the vascular access function is crucial in this particular patient population, venous bypass procedures should be kept in mind as an alternative for central venous reconstruction, before deciding on ligation and relocation of the AVF.

Patient-specific hemodynamic feature of central venous disease intervened by stent: A numerical study

Central venous disease (CVD) with stenosis or occlusion is a severe and prevalent complication for chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients, resulting in dialysis access dysfunction. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty with stent placement (PTS) has become one of the first-line treatments for CVD. In clinical practice, the extra stents would be used if the curative efficacy of a single stent were unsatisfactory. Aiming to evaluate the therapeutic effect of different PTS schemes, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations on four patients were performed to compare the hemodynamic characteristics of real-life HD patients after stent placement. The three-dimensional central vein's models of each patient were built using computational tomography angiography (CTA) images, and idealized models were constructed as contrast. Two inlet velocity modes were imposed to imitate the blood flow rate of healthy and HD patients. The hemodynamic parameters for different patients were investigated, including wall shear stress (WSS), velocity, and helicity. The results showed that the implantation of double stents is able to improve flexibility. When subjected to external force, the double stents have better radial stiffness. This paper evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of stent placement and provided a theoretical basis for CVD intervention in hemodialysis patients.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Central Venous Access Device and Site Selection

The use of central venous access devices is ubiquitous in both inpatient and outpatient settings, whether for critical care, oncology, hemodialysis, parenteral nutrition, or diagnostic purposes. Radiology has a well-established role in the placement of these devices due to demonstrated benefits of radiologic placement in multiple clinical settings. A wide variety of devices are available for central venous access and optimal device selection is a common clinical challenge. Central venous access devices may be nontunneled, tunneled, or implantable. They may be centrally or peripherally inserted by way of veins in the neck, extremities, or elsewhere. Each device and access site presents specific risks that should be considered in each clinical scenario to minimize the risk of harm. The risk of infection and mechanical injury should be minimized in all patients. In hemodialysis patients, preservation of future access is an additional important consideration. The ACR Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances in which peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

PICC line management among patients with chronic kidney disease

More than 1 million peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are placed annually in the US and are used to provide convenient vascular access for a variety of reasons including long term antibiotic treatment, chemotherapy, parenteral nutrition, and blood draws. Although they are relatively easy to place and inexpensive, PICC line use is associated with many complications such as phlebitis/thrombophlebitis, venous thrombosis, catheter-related infection, wound infection, and central vein stenosis. These complications are far more deleterious for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) whose lives depend on a functioning hemodialysis access once they reach end stage kidney disease (ESKD). Despite recent guidelines to avoid PICC lines in CKD and ESKD patients, clinical use remains high. There is an ongoing urgency to educate and inform health care providers and the CKD patients themselves in preserving their venous real estate. In this article, we review AV access and PICC line background, complications associated with PICC lines in the CKD population, and recommendations for alternatives to placing a PICC line in this vulnerable patient population.

Prevention and treatment of catheter-related venous thrombosis in long-term parenteral nutrition: A SINuC position statement

The implementation of long-term parenteral nutrition (PN) often requires the placement of central venous access, a procedure that carries a considerable risk of catheter-related venous thrombosis (CRT). The occurrence of CRT represents a major event in the natural history of patients in PN since it can lead to central venous access loss and PN failure. Despite the importance of this topic in clinical nutrition, the prevention and treatment of CRT in PN represents one of the "gray areas" of the literature of the presence of few randomized controlled clinical trials and the generally low level of evidence of published scientific papers. Through a narrative review of the literature and a Delphi consensus, the Italian Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (SINuC) aimed to collect some practical recommendations regarding the current state-of-the-art in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of CRT in patients undergoing long-term PN.

Peripheral central catheter insertion in low eGFR patients: Retrospective single institution study

PURPOSE

To identify the rate of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) placement in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), stage 3B or higher (glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <45 mL/min/1.73 m²).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective study of 2825 adult patients (male 51.2%, female 48.8%) who had a PICC insertion from January 2017 to December 2019. The data collected includes gender, eGFR value at the date of insertion, accessed vein and side, ongoing or subsequent dialysis within 1 year, and death within 1 year of the insertion date. The study excluded pediatric patients, patients with missing eGFR values prior to the procedure and follow-up information.

RESULT

PICC insertion was done in patients with eGFR⩽45 mL/min/1.73 m² in 26.7% (724/2709) of the sample. Ongoing dialysis was documented in 10.2% (198/1946) and subsequent dialysis in 6.5% of the patients within the year after insertion. The overall death rate for the year post PICC insertion was 38.7% (1094/2825), which was significantly higher in low eGFR patients (413/724, 57%) compared to patients with eGFR>45 mL/min/1.73 m² (632/1985, 31.8%) (p-value < 0.0001, odds ratio 2.84 (95% confidence interval 2.38-3.38)). The rate of dialysis initiated in the year post PICC insertion was 5.9% (98/1657). This was significantly higher in patients with a low eGFR and not previously dialyzed (59/310, 19%) compared to patients with eGFR>45 who required dialysis in the year post insertion (39/1347, 2.9%) (p < 0.0001, odds ratio 7.88 (95% confidence interval 5.14-12.07)).

CONCLUSION

PICC insertion in patients with CKD is practiced frequently. Rigorous strategies should be implemented to improve adherence to clinical practice guidelines and reduce unnecessary insertions and preserve veins for when an AVF may be required.

ECG-Based Techniques to Optimize Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters: Rationale for Tip Positioning and Practical Use

Intracavitary electrocardiography is an accurate guidance technique for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) tip location that is spreading widely among providers using non x-ray-based facilities. The principle behind this technology relies on the transmission of the electrocardiographic signal at the tip of the catheter and its use as an internal mobile electrode, allowing the system to identify the cavo-atrial junction (CAJ) through internal P-wave amplitude modulations. The gain in popularity of intracavitary electrography and its large diffusion have led manufacturers to offer various devices with heterogeneous properties, among which clinician who place PICCs have to choose. It is therefore important to understand differences between available techniques and devices. The potential impact might not only affect availability and costs but also the clinical impact through advantages and limitations regarding electric signal transmission PICC selection. Current perspectives on intracavitary electrocardiography will also be discussed, to give the reader a global view of the management of electrocardiographically guided PICCs, especially in an environment without x-ray support.

Complications from port-a-cath system implantation in adults with malignant tumors: A 10-year single-center retrospective study

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Outcomes of Venoplasty-Assisted, Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Placement in Patients with Upper-Arm Venous Stenosis: Comparison with Midlines and Contralateral Placement

PURPOSE

To compare the effectiveness and safety of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and peripherally inserted central catheter (PTA + PICC), contralateral PICC, and midline catheterization (MC) in patients with venous stenosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 7,327 PICC procedures were performed in 5,421 patients at a single institution between 2013 and 2019. Among them, 87 patients had upper-arm venous stenoses and were managed with PTA + PICC, contralateral PICC, or MC. Data on catheter-dwell time, clinical success rate, and adverse events were recorded. The procedure was considered to have clinically succeeded when a PICC was removed from the patient just before discharge or after the completion of therapy. Catheter survival time and the chance of adverse events were compared among the groups using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank test.

RESULTS

PTA + PICC, contralateral PICC, and MC procedures were performed for 57 (65.5%, 57/87), 10 (11.5%, 10/87), and 20 (23.0%, 23/87) patients, respectively. The mean catheter-dwell time in the PTA + PICC, contralateral PICC, and MC groups was 49.7, 28.7, and 15.1 days, respectively, and the clinical success rate of each group was 86.0% (49/57), 80.0% (8/10), and 50.0% (10/20). The PTA + PICC group had a significantly longer catheter survival time than the MC group (P < .001). The chance of a catheter-related infection (P = .008) was significantly lower in the PTA + PICC group than in the MC group.

CONCLUSIONS

PTA + PICC or contralateral PICC should be considered prior to ipsilateral MC when venous stenosis is encountered during PICC procedures.

Multidisciplinary cooperative mode led by infusion nurse specialists used to ensure the nursing quality of peripherally inserted central catheters in China: A 5-year retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the effect of multidisciplinary cooperation mode (MCM) led by infusion nurse specialists (INSs) on peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) catheterization and indwelling nursing quality.

METHODS

Participants' demographic information, catheter types, catheterization approaches, puncture site, tip position, professional title of nurses, success rate of catheterization, consultation rate, detection rate of complications and outcome improvement rate of 6576 outpatients and hospitalized patients with PICC were analyzed retrospectively by a software named "questionnaire stars," in a large tertiary general hospital in Shanghai, from January 2015 to December 2019. SPSS 26.0 for Windows was used for data collection and description, Chi-square test were used for statistical analysis of enumeration data, and p < 0.05 was statistically significant.

RESULTS

According to the catheter types' data, the use rate of three-way valve catheters decreased from 79.9% to 14.5%, while the use rate of three-way valve solo catheters increased from 12.7% to 51.6%, and the use rate of power injectable and open-ended catheters increased from 7.4% to 33.9%. According to the data of PICC catheterization method, conventional technology decreased significantly from 16.8% to 1.1%, modified Seldinger technique (MST) increased gradually from 26.1% to 51.3%, while ultrasound guided modified Seldinger technique (US and MST) decreased slightly from 57.2% to 47.6%. 7.5% catheter tip ends were malpositioned while nine indwelled PICCs were traced to have tip end malposition. The consultation rate was significantly higher than that before applying MCM led by INSs (x² = 151.713, p < 0.05). After applying MCM led by INSs, the detection rate of complications was significantly higher than before (x² = 5.499, p < 0.05), the rate of successful insertion at one time was significantly higher than before (x² = 187.589, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

After the application of INSs-led MCM, progresses have been achieved. The nursing quality of patients' PICC was significantly improved than before.

Paclitaxel-Coated Balloons for the Treatment of Symptomatic Central Venous Stenosis in Vascular Access: Results From a European, Multicenter, Single-Arm Retrospective Analysis

INTRODUCTION

This was a European, multicenter, investigator-initiated and run, single-arm retrospective analysis to assess the safety and the clinical benefit of the use of paclitaxel-coated balloon (PCB) for the treatment of symptomatic central venous stenosis (CVS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eleven centers from 7 countries across Europe, submitted 86 cases performed during the period between October 2015 and June 2018. Minimum follow-up was 6 months. Patient baseline demographics and procedural details were collected. Mean age was 62.6 years (SD 15.2 years). Median vascular access age was 3.0 years (IQR 1.2-4.8 years). A total of 55 were arteriovenous fistulas (64%) the rest arteriovenous grafts (31/86, 36%). Vessels treated were 43 subclavian veins, 42 brachiocephalic veins and 1 superior vena cava. Median drug-coated balloon diameter was 10 mm (IQR 8-12 mm). Primary outcome measures were clinically assessed intervention-free period (IFP) of the treated segment at 6 months and procedure-related minor and major complications. Secondary outcome measures included access circuit survival, patient survival, and the investigation of independent factors that influence the IFP.

RESULTS

IFP was 62.7% at 6 months. Median patient follow-up time was 1.0 year (IQR 0.5-2.2 years). There was 1 minor complication (1/86; 1.2%) and no major complications. Access circuit survival was 87.7% at 6 months. Patient survival was 79.7% at 2 years according to Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Higher balloon diameters significantly favored IFP [HR 0.71 (0.55-0.92), p=0.006; 5-7 mm group vs 8-12 mm group, p=0.025].

CONCLUSION

In this analysis, use of PCBs for the treatment of symptomatic CVS was safe. Efficacy was comparable to previous trials. Increased balloon size had a significant effect on patency rates.

Hemodialysis as a Risk Factor for Lower Right Internal Jugular Stenosis in Cardiac Surgery Patients: A Retrospective Single-Center Study

Lower right internal jugular vein (RIJ) stenosis has been reported as a common cause of RIJ catheterization failure. However, the risk factors for lower RIJ stenosis in patients undergoing cardiac surgery is unclear. We reviewed the electronic medical records of all adult patients who had undergone cardiac operations in a single tertiary university hospital from January 2014 to January 2016. Patients were excluded if they were lack of preoperative contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography (CT) studies. Lower RIJ stenosis was defined as a ratio of cross-sectional area at the smallest level to cross-sectional area at the largest level less than 25%. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the risk factors for lower RIJ stenosis. A sensitivity analysis was also conducted using a cross-sectional area ratio of under 20%. The analysis included 889 patients, and the incidence of lower RIJ stenosis was 3.9%. The multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed that hemodialysis was an independent risk factor for lower RIJ stenosis (OR, 3.54; 95% CI, 1.472–8.514). Sensitivity analysis provided that hemodialysis (OR, 10.842; 95% CI, 3.589–32.75) was a significant predictor of cross-sectional area ratio <20%. Preoperative hemodialysis are significantly associated with an increased risk of lower RIJ stenosis in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Extra care is needed during central venous catheterization in hemodialysis patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Post-Dialysis Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy in Patients Receiving Intermittent High-Flux Hemodialysis

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) are at increased risk of infection, which represents a leading cause of mortality in this population. The use of additional vascular access devices such as peripherally inserted central catheters to treat such infections should be minimized in patients with ESRD requiring IHD in order to mitigate complications such as infection and thrombosis and to maintain venous patency for hemodialysis access. Intravenous antimicrobial dosing following IHD has the advantages of avoiding additional access devices and providing convenience for patients and providers. Vancomycin, cefazolin, and aminoglycosides have historically been regarded as the primary intravenous antimicrobials administered with IHD given their relatively low cost, convenient dosing, and longevity of clinical use. Despite this, a growing body of literature is evaluating the use of an expanded list of antimicrobials that may be employed using post-dialysis dosing for patients requiring IHD; however, the available data are largely limited to pharmacokinetic studies and small cohorts of infected patients or uninfected subjects. Post-dialytic dosing of intravenous antimicrobials may be considered on a patient-by-patient basis after careful consideration of clinical, microbiological, and logistical factors that may influence the probability of treatment success. This document reviews and evaluates currently available information on the post-dialytic administration of an expanded list of intravenous antimicrobials in the setting of thrice-weekly, high-flux IHD.

Lesion Type Analysis of Hemodialysis Patients Who Underwent Endovascular Management for Symptomatic Central Venous Disease

Purpose

Central venous lesions (CVLs) can adversely affect hemodialysis access maturation and maintenance, which in turn worsen patient morbidity and access circuit patency. In this study, we assessed several clinical variables, patient characteristics, and clinical consequences of symptomatic central vein stenosis and obstruction in patients who underwent renal replacement therapy in the form of hemodialysis.

Patients and Methods

The medical records of all hemodialysis patients with clinically symptomatic CVLs who underwent digital subtraction angiography treatment at King Abdullah University Hospital between January 2017 and December 2019 were retrieved. Patient characteristics and the clinical and anatomical features of CVLs were analyzed retrospectively. Pearson’s chi-square tests of association were used to identify and assess relationships between patient characteristics and CVLs.

Results

The study cohort comprised 66 patients with end-stage renal disease who developed symptomatic central vein stenosis. Of the 66 patients, 56.1% were men, and their mean age was approximately 52 years. Most (62.1%) of the patients were determined to have a history of central catheter insertion into the jugular vein. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity (78.8%, p<0.001), followed by type 2 diabetes mellitus (47.0 %, p<0.01). The incidence of stenosis was found to be significantly higher in the brachiocephalic vein than in other central veins (43.9%, p<0.001). A repeated central catheter insertion in a patient was predictive of central venous occlusion (p<0.05). Stenotic lesions were found to be associated with a significantly higher success rate than occlusive lesions (91.2%, p<0.01).

Conclusion

Multiple central venous catheters (CVCs) are found to be associated with occlusive CVLs and unfavorable recanalization outcomes. Multiple CVC should be avoided by creating a permanent vascular access in a timely fashion for patients with chronic kidney disease and by avoiding the ipsilateral insertion of CVC and AVF.

Evaluating a Novel Telescoping Catheter Set for Treatment of Central Venous Occlusions

BACKGROUND

Central venous occlusive disease (CVOD) is a prevalent problem in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and can lead to access malfunction or ligation for symptomatic relief. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the TriForce® Peripheral Crossing Set (Cook Medical), a novel reinforced telescoping catheter set designed to provide additional support for crossing difficult central venous occlusions.

METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective study from a quaternary referral center. We identified 37 patients over a 17-month period who underwent 56 attempts at endovascular recanalization for the treatment of central venous occlusion. Technical success rates, procedural data, and outcomes were compared between those undergoing recanalization using traditional wire/catheter sets versus the TriForce catheter set.

RESULTS

Average age was 48 ± 2 years. Comorbidities were similar between the two cohorts and included ESRD (61%), deep venous thrombosis (30%), and May-Thurner syndrome (7%). Forty attempts were made with traditional wire/catheter sets and 16 attempts with the TriForce catheter set to treat 2.1 ± 0.2 and 1.9 ± 0.3 occluded venous segments, respectively (P = 0.74). Technical success rates were significantly higher for the group undergoing recanalization using the TriForce catheter (69% versus 38%, P = 0.04) and 4 patients were successfully recanalized using the TriForce catheter set after a failed attempt with traditional wire/catheter sets. Mean fluoroscopy time and radiation dose were 13 ± 3 min and 14,623 ± 2,775 μGy∗m² for traditional techniques versus 30 ± 6 min and 30,408 ± 10,433 μGy∗m² for the novel telescoping catheter set (P = 0.01 and 0.09, respectively). Freedom from reintervention at 1 year was 60% for the TriForce cohort versus 44% for the traditional wire/catheter cohort (P = 0.25).

CONCLUSIONS

The novel TriForce reinforced telescoping catheter set is a useful adjunct that may improve recanalization rates of CVOD compared with traditional wire/catheter sets.

Flap demise reversed after central venous access device removal: A case report

Patients undergoing head and neck free flap reconstruction should be evaluated for radiation-induced venous stenosis and presence of central venous port as a potential risk for flap failure.

Effects of the MAGIC Guidelines on PICC Placement Volume: Advanced Practice Provider and Physician Trends Among Medicare Beneficiaries From 2010 to 2018

BACKGROUND. The Michigan Appropriateness Guide for Intravenous Catheters (MAGIC) was published in 2015, recommending more restricted indications for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement, particularly for those placed by physicians. Changes in PICC placement volume since the publication of MAGIC is largely unknown. OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article was to study the trends in volume and reimbursement for PICC placement by physicians and advanced practice providers (APPs) for Medicare enrollees from 2010 to 2018 with specific attention to the changes in volume after the publication of MAGIC in 2015. METHODS. Claims from the Medicare Part B Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary Master File for the years 2010-2018 were extracted using the Current Procedural Terminology code for PICC placement. Total volume and payment amounts (for the professional component) were analyzed. Trendline slopes for volume per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries before and after the 2015 publication of MAGIC were compared. RESULTS. Volume for PICC placement by physicians and APPs steadily declined from 243,837 in 2010 to 130,361 in 2018 (46.5%). The PICC placement volume decreased sharply after the 2015 publication of the MAGIC guidelines. The slope of the trendline for all providers from 2010 to 2015 was -3.4 compared with -7.3 from 2015 to 2018. The change in slope was more pronounced for radiologists (-3.1 to -5.6) than for APPs (0.0 to -1.1). Professional payment per procedure for radiologists decreased from $78.04 in 2010 to $70.17 in 2018, and reimbursement for APPs proportionally decreased from $65.76 to $60.66 during this time. The relative share of PICC placement by radiologists declined from 77.0% in 2010 to 70.6% in 2018, with a corresponding increase in relative share by APPs from 13.5% to 18.4%. The percentage placed in outpatient procedures increased from 15.1% to 18.2%. CONCLUSION. The volume of PICC placements has steadily decreased since 2010, with a sharper decline between 2015 and 2016 corresponding with the publication of the MAGIC evidence-based guidelines. The role of APPs in PICC placement has increased over this time period. CLINICAL IMPACT. The findings of this study suggest that evidence-based guidelines impact clinical practice on a national level.

Nursing Interventions to Reduce Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Occlusion for Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review of Literature

BACKGROUND

Cancer patients are considered the most at risk of the consequences of catheter occlusion. Therefore, nursing interventions that can effectively reduce the occlusion of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) lines must be identified to ensure a smooth treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate nursing interventions to minimize PICC line occlusion and make recommended measures for preventing or decreasing occlusion and abnormal extubation.

METHODS

Studies about PICC occlusion that were published up to January 2017 were searched and screened in PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct (Elsevier), EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Chinese databases CNKI and Wanfang. Two independent reviewers screened the literature in accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria, assessed the quality of the included studies, and extracted the data. Further meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3.

RESULTS

Thirteen trials were included. Meta-analysis revealed that education for nurses (relative risk, 0.31; 95% confidence interval, 0.19-0.51; P < .00001) was significantly associated with PICC occlusion, whereas PICC type (relative risk, 0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.32-1.15; P = .12) was not significantly associated with PICC occlusion. The solution to washing pipes and the PICC insertion techniques were descriptively analyzed to reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

This study determined the correlation of PICC occlusion with the nurses' knowledge and skills, PICC types, flushing liquid and methods, and insertion techniques.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

The findings of this study can serve as a guide for clinical work and for developing targeted measures to reduce occlusion.

KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for Vascular Access: 2019 Update

The National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) has provided evidence-based guidelines for hemodialysis vascular access since 1996. Since the last update in 2006, there has been a great accumulation of new evidence and sophistication in the guidelines process. The 2019 update to the KDOQI Clinical Practice Guideline for Vascular Access is a comprehensive document intended to assist multidisciplinary practitioners care for chronic kidney disease patients and their vascular access. New topics include the end-stage kidney disease "Life-Plan" and related concepts, guidance on vascular access choice, new targets for arteriovenous access (fistulas and grafts) and central venous catheters, management of specific complications, and renewed approaches to some older topics. Appraisal of the quality of the evidence was independently conducted by using a Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, and interpretation and application followed the GRADE Evidence to Decision frameworks. As applicable, each guideline statement is accompanied by rationale/background information, a detailed justification, monitoring and evaluation guidance, implementation considerations, special discussions, and recommendations for future research.

Single-centre experience of an early cannulation graft for haemodialysis access

INTRODUCTION

As the demographics of the population changes, increasing challenges are being faced in providing reliable access for dialysis. This article reports on the outcomes from the largest series to date using the early cannulation graft Flixene in a single centre.

METHODS

Between May 2012 and March 2018, 141 Flixene grafts were placed for dialysis access. The outcomes of the arteriovenous grafts were reviewed retrospectively from electronically held records and imaging.

RESULTS

In 75 patients, placement of Flixene graft was performed on an emergency basis and in 66 patients on a planned elective list. The 12-month primary, assisted primary and secondary patency rates were 48.7%, 56.6% and 83.6%, respectively. Eight (5.7%) patients developed infections of the graft during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

In our experience, we have found the use of the early cannulation graft Flixene to be safe with a low complication rate and favourable patency rates. We believe these early cannulation grafts provide a useful addition for vascular access surgeons preventing the use of tunnelled lines and providing more flexibility in the timing of placing a graft for dialysis.

Use of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters in Patients With Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease: A Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Existing guidelines, including Choosing Wisely recommendations, endorse avoiding placement of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

OBJECTIVE

To describe the frequency of and characteristics associated with PICC use in hospitalized patients with stage 3b or greater CKD (glomerular filtration rate [GFR] <45 mL/min/1.73 m2).

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

52 hospitals participating in the Michigan Hospital Medicine Safety Consortium.

PARTICIPANTS

Hospitalized medical patients who received a PICC between November 2013 and September 2016.

MEASUREMENTS

Percentage of patients receiving PICCs who had CKD, frequency of PICC-related complications, and variation in the proportion of PICCs placed in patients with CKD.

RESULTS

Of 20 545 patients who had PICCs placed, 4743 (23.1% [95% CI, 20.9% to 25.3%]) had an estimated GFR (eGFR) less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 and 699 (3.4%) were receiving hemodialysis. In the intensive care unit (ICU), 30.9% (CI, 29.7% to 32.2%) of patients receiving PICCs had an eGFR less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m2; the corresponding percentage in wards was 19.3% (CI, 18.8% to 19.9%). Among patients with an eGFR less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, multilumen PICCs were placed more frequently than single-lumen PICCs. In wards, PICC-related complications occurred in 15.3% of patients with an eGFR less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 and in 15.2% of those with an eGFR of 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 or higher. The corresponding percentages in ICU settings were 22.4% and 23.9%. In patients with an eGFR less than 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, PICC placement varied widely across hospitals (interquartile range, 23.7% to 37.8% in ICUs and 12.8% to 23.7% in wards).

LIMITATION

Nephrologist approval for placement could not be determined, and 2.7% of eGFR values were unknown and excluded.

CONCLUSION

In this sample of hospitalized patients who received PICCs, placement in those with CKD was common and not concordant with clinical guidelines.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network.

Optimizing vascular-access device decision-making in the era of midline catheters

This narrative review addresses vascular access device choice from peripheral intravenous catheters through central venous catheters, including the evolving use of midline catheters. The review incorporates best practices, published algorithms, and complications extending beyond CLABSI and phlebitis to assist clinicians in navigating complex vascular access decisions.

Long peripheral catheters for deep arm vein venous access: A systematic review of complications

PURPOSE

Long peripheral catheters (LPCs) offer a quick, simple and cost-effective alternative for venous access in intensive care patients with difficult venous access, but the decision to use them must be balanced against an assessment of harm. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise reports of complications associated with LPCs.

METHODS

The electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL were searched systematically for randomised controlled trials, cohort studies and case control studies published in the period 1966 to 24th July 2018 reporting LPC associated occlusion, catheter related blood stream infections, phlebitis and infiltration. Study quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomised Studies. The studies were described and participant characteristics; type of catheter; setting; average dwell time; and rates of occlusion, catheter related blood stream infection, phlebitis and infiltration were extracted as summary measures.

RESULTS

Five cohort studies and one randomised controlled study, comprising a total of 350 participants, fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Dwell time ranged from 1 to 15days and the reported complication rate was 3-14%. The most common complication was catheter occlusion (4%), followed by phlebitis (1%), infiltration (0.9%), and catheter related blood stream infection (0.3%). Significant heterogeneity, particularly in identification and reporting of complications, means results should be interpreted with caution.

CONCLUSION

There is a lack of intervention specific and adequately powered randomised controlled trials investigating LPCs in an intensive care setting. Until the results of such studies are available, LPCs should be used as an alternative to ultrasound-guided PVCs in well monitored acute care environments.

Outcomes of Central Venoplasty in Haemodialysis Patients

Objective: To review the outcomes of central venoplasty in the treatment of symptomatic central vein stenosis in patients undergoing haemodialysis via an ipsilateral arteriovenous fistula (AVF).

Methods: Data were collected retrospectively, and included all the consecutive cases of central venoplasty between January 2008 and December 2015.

Results: A total of 132 central venoplasties in 76 patients were performed, with incidence of symptomatic central vein stenosis at 7.4%. Of the patients, 66% were male and the mean age was 61 years. The most frequent indication was decreased dialysis access flow rates (58%) and 52% of all the patients had symptoms of upper limb swelling. The patients who had previous ipsilateral tunneled internal jugular vein dialysis catheters made up 58% of the patients. The mean time from AVF creation to first central venoplasty was 24 months, and 74% of the cases required a second central venoplasty and the mean time to second venoplasty was 7 months. The overall post intervention assisted primary patency rate was 87%, 74%, 63%, and 42% at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months respectively. Statistically significant differences were found in primary assisted patency (p=0.025) and time to second procedure (p=0.039) comparing those with and without a history of ipsilateral tunneled dialysis catheter.

Conclusion: Central venoplasty is technically feasible with low procedural risk. The maintenance of the AVF patency usually requires multiple procedures at average interval of 7 months. Patients with a history of upper limb tunneled dialysis catheter ipsilateral to the side of central vein stenosis or AVF have a less favorable outcome compared to those without.

Interventional management of central vein occlusion in patients with peripherally inserted central catheter placement

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the incidence of central vein occlusion (CVO) and analyzed the interventional management for CVO during peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement to suggest an adequate management protocol to ensure the success and patency of PICCs.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 2568 PICCs to identify CVO in two medical centers between January 2016 and June 2017. Procedural images were reviewed for the following items: date and indication for the PICC; type of catheter; accessed vein and arm; characteristics of CVO on ascending arm venography; PICC placement technique; indwelling period of the PICC; and follow-up records. A guidewire passage trial was performed to the CVO, as follows: a trial with a 0.018-inch single or double guidewire through the pretrimmed PICC lumen; and a trial with a combination of a 0.035-inch guidewire and a curved 5F diagnostic catheter through the PICC introducer sheath.

RESULTS

The incidence of CVO was 3.2% (71/2232), and 59 patients were analyzed (23 men; mean age, 69 ± 11 years; median age, 80 years; age range, 31-92 years). Forty-four patients had thrombotic CVO, and 12 patients had acute thrombotic CVO. Thirty-six patients had occlusion of the left innominate vein, and six patients had contiguous involvement of the adjacent central vein. Forty-two patients had obtuse stump morphology of CVO, and 28 patients had grade >III collateral development. The PICC indwelling time was statistically different between the group with successful catheter advancement (n = 36, success group) and the group with failed catheter advancement (n = 18, failure group; P = .007) with ipsilateral trimmed PICCs. Eight patients had a symptomatic catheter associated with upper extremity deep venous thrombosis (UEDVT; <30 days), one in the success group and seven in the failure group. The incidence of catheter-associated UEDVT after primary PICC placement on each arm was statistically different between the success and failure groups (P = .004).

CONCLUSIONS

A PICC passage trial for ipsilateral CVO is challenging but frequently successful with a simple guidewire technique, which can preserve catheter patency, decrease contralateral arm access, and prevent the development of new catheter-associated UEDVT.

Effect of catheter diameter on left innominate vein in breast cancer patients after totally implantable venous access port placement

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the effect of catheter diameter on left innominate vein stenosis in breast cancer patients after placement of totally implantable venous access ports.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Totally implantable venous access ports were placed via the left internal jugular vein in 241 women with right breast cancer from January 2010 to December 2014 (mean age, 51.5 years; range, 19-83 years). There were 67 totally implantable venous access ports with a 6.5F catheter and 142 totally implantable venous access ports with an 8F catheter. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed. The presence of significant left innominate vein stenosis and tip location of the catheter was evaluated on chest computed tomography images. Statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS:

Left innominate vein stenosis developed in 1 (1.5%) and 13 (9.2%) patients after implantation with 6.5 and 8F catheters, respectively. Difference in the cumulative incidence of left innominate vein stenosis was statistically significant between the two groups (log rank test p-value: 0.002). In Cox regression analysis, the hazard ratio for left innominate vein stenosis was 20.766 ( p = 0.005) for an 8F catheter.

CONCLUSION:

The incidence of left innominate vein stenosis was higher after implantation of totally implantable venous access ports with 8F catheter rather than with 6.5F catheter. Considering that using 8F catheter versus 6.5F catheter has no advantage in terms of performance of the device, the results of our study suggest that ports with catheters >7F should be avoided.

The incidence of symptomatic upper limb venous thrombosis associated with midline catheter: Prospective observation

Aim:

The evaluation of the incidence of symptomatic upper limb venous thrombosis (ULVT) associated with midline catheters in patients admitted to the hospital.

Methods:

The frequency of symptomatic ULVT diagnosed in a group of patients with midline catheters confirmed by sonographic examination in hospitalised patients at Faculty Hospital over the period of 1 year.

Results:

Four hundred thirty-nine midline catheters were inserted in 430 patients (250 women and 180 men) during year 2015. Nine patients had two midline catheters. The average age of the patient was 68 years (range: 19–96 years). The median time of midline catheter introduction into a vein was 10 days (range: 1–112 days). Symptomatic thrombosis was diagnosed in 20 patients (4.5%), 3.3/1000 catheter days. It was associated with gender (male) and midline insertion in the cephalic vein.

Conclusion:

The risk of upper limb symptomatic thrombosis associated with midline catheters during a stay in the hospital should be taken into consideration when indicating optimal venous access.

Patterns and Predictors of Short-Term Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Use: A Multicenter Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The guidelines for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) recommend avoiding insertion if the anticipated duration of use is =5 days. However, short-term PICC use is common in hospitals. We sought to identify patient, provider, and device characteristics and the clinical outcomes associated with short-term PICCs.

METHODS

Between January 2014 and June 2016, trained abstractors at 52 Michigan Hospital Medicine Safety (HMS) Consortium sites collected data from medical records of adults that received PICCs during hospitalization. Patients were prospectively followed until PICC removal, death, or 70 days after insertion. Multivariable logistic regression models were fit to identify factors associated with short-term PICCs, defined as dwell time of =5 days. Complications associated with short-term use, including major (eg, venous thromboembolism [VTE] or central lineassociated bloodstream infection [CLABSI]) or minor (eg, catheter occlusion, tip migration) events were assessed.

RESULTS

Of the 15,397 PICCs placed, 3902 (25.3%) had a dwell time of =5 days. Most (95.5%) short-term PICCs were removed during hospitalization. Compared to PICCs placed for >5 days, variables associated with short-term PICCs included difficult venous access (odds ratio [OR], 1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.40-1.69), multilumen devices (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.39-1.69), and teaching hospitals (OR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.04-1.52). Among those with short-term PICCs, 374 (9.6%) experienced a complication, including 99 (2.5%) experiencing VTE and 17 (0.4%) experiencing CLABSI events. The most common minor complications were catheter occlusion (4%) and tip migration (2.2%).

CONCLUSION

Short-term use of PICCs is common and associated with patient, provider, and device factors. As PICC placement, even for brief periods, is associated with complications, efforts targeted at factors underlying such use appear necessary.

Preoperative management of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for hemodialysis

Native arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the favorite access for hemodialysis (HD). The National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) recommends its creation in most patients with renal failure. Unfortunately, intensive efforts to promote native AVF in patients with marginal vessels have increased the rate of primary fistula failure. A non-functioning fistula prompts the use of central venous catheter (CVC) that, unlike AVF, has been associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality among patients receiving HD. We believe that successful and timely AVF placement relies on the development of a multidisciplinary integrated preoperative program divided into five stages: (i) management of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), (ii) management of preoperative risk factors for AVF failure, (iii) planning of native AVF, (iv) assessment of patient eligibility and (v) preoperative vascular mapping. Focusing specifically on native AVF, we review scientific evidence regarding preoperative management of this vascular access in order to favor construction of long-term functioning fistula minimizing development of severe complications.

Venous thrombosis and stenosis after peripherally inserted central catheter placement in children

BACKGROUND

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) can lead to development of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis. The presence of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis may preclude children with chronic medical conditions from receiving lifesaving therapies, from hemodialysis in end-stage renal disease to total parenteral nutrition in short bowel syndrome. Several adult studies have found an association between PICCs and venous thrombosis and/or stenosis, but none has evaluated for this association in children.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis after PICC placement and identify factors that increase the risk of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis after PICC placement in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of children ages 1-18 years with a PICC placed between January 2010 and July 2013 at our center, and included those who had at least one vascular imaging study of the ipsilateral extremity (Doppler ultrasound, venogram or MR angiogram) after PICC placement. Logistic regression was applied to determine risk factors for development of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis.

RESULTS

One thousand, one hundred and ten upper extremity PICCs were placed, with 703 PICCs in the right and 407 PICCs in the left. Eight hundred fifty-one imaging studies (609 Doppler ultrasounds, 193 contrast venograms and 49 MR angiograms) were performed in 376 patients. The incidence of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis in the imaged cohort was 26.3%. PICC laterality, insertion site, duration, patient height to PICC diameter ratio, and number of PICCs per patient were not associated with development of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis. Additionally, primary diagnosis and symptoms at the time of imaging did not predict findings of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis. However, patients exposed to non-PICC central venous catheters (CVC) were more likely to develop venous thrombosis and/or stenosis (odds ratio 1.95, 1.10-3.45).

CONCLUSION

More than a quarter of the vascular imaging studies performed in this study cohort showed previously unknown venous thrombosis and/or stenosis, irrespective of PICC laterality, insertion site, duration and size and the number of PICCs. A history of CVC was associated with a nearly two-fold increase in risk of venous thrombosis and/or stenosis after PICC placement. We suggest that PICCs and CVCs should be placed judiciously in all children, but especially in those with lifelong medical conditions who are more likely to incur direct consequences from limited vascular access.

Hemodialysis Tunneled Catheter Noninfectious Complications

Noninfectious hemodialysis catheter complications include catheter dysfunction, catheter-related thrombus, and central vein stenosis. The definitions, causes, and treatment strategies for catheter dysfunction are reviewed below. Catheter-related thrombus is a less common but serious complication of catheters, requiring catheter removal and systemic anticoagulation. In addition, the risk factors, clinical manifestation, and treatment options for central vein stenosis are outlined.

Concurrent Central Venous Stent and Central Venous Access Device Placement Does Not Compromise Stent Patency or Catheter Function in Patients with Malignant Central Venous Obstruction

PURPOSE

To determine if concurrent placement of a central venous stent (CVS) and central venous access device (CVAD) compromises stent patency or catheter function in patients with malignant central venous obstruction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CVS placement for symptomatic stenosis resulting from malignant compression was performed in 33 consecutive patients who were identified retrospectively over a 10-year period; 28 (85%) patients had superior vena cava syndrome, and 5 (15%) had arm swelling. Of patients, 11 (33%) underwent concurrent CVS and CVAD placement, exchange, or repositioning; 22 (67%) underwent CVS deployment alone and served as the control group. Types of CVADs ranged from 5-F to 9.5-F catheters. Endpoints were CVS patency as determined by clinical symptoms or CT and CVAD function, which was determined by clinical performance.

RESULTS

All procedures were technically successful. There was no difference between the 2 groups in clinically symptomatic CVS occlusion (P = .2) or asymptomatic in-stent stenosis detected on CT (P = .5). None of the patients in the CVS and CVAD group had recurrent clinical symptoms, but 3 (30%) of 10 patients with imaging follow-up had asymptomatic in-stent stenosis. In the control group, 3 (14%) patients had clinically symptomatic CVS occlusion and required stent revision, whereas 4 (21%) of 19 patients with imaging follow-up had asymptomatic in-stent stenosis. During the study, 2 (20%) functional but radiographically malpositioned catheters were identified (0.66 per 1,000 catheter days).

CONCLUSIONS

Presence of a CVAD through a CVS may not compromise stent patency or catheter function compared with CVS placement alone.

Central Venous Interventions

Central venous stenosis or occlusion is a common and vexing problem in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Typical presenting symptoms include arm swelling and prolonged bleeding after hemodialysis. Despite multiple treatment approaches, these stenoses tend to recur and progress over time. A thorough preprocedure evaluation, methodical procedural approach and awareness of potential complications are all essential to try to preserve vascular access and improve patients' quality of life.

Incidence and risk factors of superficial and deep vein thrombosis associated with peripherally inserted central catheters in children

Essentials Pediatric studies on peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)-related thrombosis are scarce. This study analyzes incidence and risk factors for PICC-related venous thrombosis in children. PICC-related thrombosis is a common, and nearly always, asymptomatic complication. Echo-guided insertion and a catheter to vein ratio < 0.33 may notably decrease this complication.

SUMMARY

Background Upper-extremity venous thrombosis is associated with the use of peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs). Few pediatric studies have focused on this issue. Objectives To determine the incidence and risk factors for PICC-related superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in children. Patients/methods An observational follow-up cohort study was conducted at a single hospital between June 2012 and June 2015. All patients receiving a PICC were enrolled and followed up, with weekly Doppler ultrasound examination of the catheterized limb until PICC removal. Patient, procedural and follow-up data were analyzed. Results In the study period, 265 PICCs were inserted (median age of patients 6.5 years, interquartile range [IQR] 2.4-13 years; median weight 20 kg, IQR 11-38 kg; 54% males; 67.9% chronically ill), and patients were followed up for a total of 9743 days. The median indwelling time was 21 days (IQR 12-37 days). During follow-up, 88 (33.2% of insertions) PICC-related thromboses (incidence rate [IR] 9.03 per 1000 catheter-days) were diagnosed, 66 (24.9%) as isolated SVT, seven (2.6%) as isolated DVT, and 15 (5.7%) as SVT with associated DVT (IR 6.78, 0.71 and 1.54 per 1000 catheter-days, respectively). Only 9.9% of patients with SVT and 18.2% of those with DVT were symptomatic. The main risk factors for PICC-related SVT and DVT were a catheter/vein ratio of > 0.33 and thrombosis of the catheterized superficial vein, respectively. Conclusions PICC-related thrombosis is a common and nearly always asymptomatic complication in children, the SVT rate being approximately three times higher than the DVT rate. Optimal vein and catheter selection, yielding the lowest possible catheter/vein ratio, may decrease the rate of PICC-related thrombosis.

Hemodialysis Tunneled Catheter Noninfectious Complications

Noninfectious hemodialysis catheter complications include catheter dysfunction, catheter-related thrombus, and central vein stenosis. The definitions, causes, and treatment strategies for catheter dysfunction are reviewed below. Catheter-related thrombus is a less common but serious complication of catheters, requiring catheter removal and systemic anticoagulation. In addition, the risk factors, clinical manifestation, and treatment options for central vein stenosis are outlined.

Arteriovenous Access Failure, Stenosis, and Thrombosis

Vascular access–related complications can lead to patient morbidity and reduced patient quality of life. Some of the common arteriovenous access complications include failure to mature, stenosis formation, and thrombosis.

Clinical effect of peripherally inserted central catheters based on modified seldinger technique under guidance of vascular ultrasound

Objective:

To observe and analyze the application effect of ultrasound-guided modified Seldinger technique (MST) in Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) catheterization.

Methods:

Two hundred patients treated with PICC catheterization from January 2013 to December 2015 were selected and randomly divided into two groups, namely, observation group and control group. The observation group adopted ultrasound-guided MST for catheterization while the control group applied traditional puncture technique for catheterization. Then efficacy of catheterization, success rate of catheterization and incidence rates of complications were compared between two groups.

Results:

Various indicators of catheterization effects of the observation group were better than those of the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05); one-time success rate of puncture and catheterization of the observation group was both higher than the control group (P<0.05);. Moreover, the incidence of puncture points bleeding, phlebitis and thrombus were all lower than those of the control group (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

Implementing PICC catheterization based on ultrasound-guided modified Seldinger puncture technique can increase success rate of puncture, improve the effect of catheterization, lower incidence rate of adverse effects of catheterization and improve satisfaction and comfort level of patients.

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters and Hemodialysis Outcomes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Use of peripherally inserted central catheters has expanded rapidly, but the consequences for patients who eventually require hemodialysis are undefined.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

Our national, population-based analysis included 33,918 adult Medicare beneficiaries from the US Renal Data System who initiated hemodialysis with central venous catheters as their sole vascular access in 2010 and 2011. We used linked Medicare claims to identify peripherally inserted central catheter exposures and evaluate the associations of peripherally inserted central catheter placement with transition to working arteriovenous fistulas or grafts and patient survival using a Cox model with time-dependent variables.

RESULTS

Among 33,918 individuals initiating hemodialysis with a catheter as sole access, 12.6% had received at least one peripherally inserted central catheter. Median follow-up was 404 days (interquartile range, 103-680 days). Among 6487 peripherally inserted central catheters placed, 3435 (53%) were placed within the 2 years before hemodialysis initiation, and 3052 (47%) were placed afterward. Multiple peripherally inserted central catheters were placed in 30% of patients exposed to peripherally inserted central catheters. Recipients of peripherally inserted central catheters were more likely to be women and have comorbid diagnoses and less likely to have received predialysis nephrology care. After adjustment for clinical and demographic factors, peripherally inserted central catheters placed before or after hemodialysis initiation were independently associated with lower likelihoods of transition to any working fistula or graft (hazard ratio for prehemodialysis peripherally inserted central catheter, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.79 to 0.91; hazard ratio for posthemodialysis peripherally inserted central catheter, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.73 to 0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

Peripherally inserted central catheter placement was common and associated with adverse vascular access outcomes. Recognition of potential long-term adverse consequences of peripherally inserted central catheters is essential for clinicians caring for patients with CKD.

The dwell time and survival rates of PICC placement after balloon angioplasty in patient with unexpected central venous obstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate the dwell time and actual survival rates of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placements after balloon angioplasty in patients with unexpected central venous obstructions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were obtained on all PICC insertions performed in a tertiary care hospital from August 2008 to December 2013. Thirty-five PICCs attempted after balloon angioplasty in 25 patients (15 male and 10 female patients; mean age, 63 years). Fisher's exact test was used to test for differences in reasons for catheter removal between the groups of patients with stenosis or obstructions. Survival curves for PICC dwell time of all patients, stenosis group, and obstruction group were generated separately using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and compared with log-rank tests.

RESULTS

There were a total 21 obstructions and 14 stenoses. The overall technical success rate of PICC placement after balloon angioplasty was 94% (33 of 35 procedures). The PICC dwell time was determined for 27 PICCs and ranged from 4 to 165 days (mean, 39.6 days). Among all PICCs, 16 were removed early, resulting in an actual survival rate of 40.7% (11 of 27 PICCs). There were no significant differences in reasons for catheter removal between the stenosis and obstruction groups (p = 0.24). The dwell times for both groups were not significantly different by Kaplan-Meier analysis (p = 0.54).

CONCLUSIONS

PICC placement after balloon angioplasty is a good treatment option for patients with unexpected central venous lesions, and offers high technical success rates. The actual survival rate was relatively lower (40.7%) than that from previous studies.

Quality improvement initiative to reduce deep vein thrombosis associated with peripherally inserted central catheters in adults with cystic fibrosis

RATIONALE

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are common in the treatment of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Previous reports suggest that patients with CF are at increased risk for PICC-associated deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

OBJECTIVES

We assessed potential risk factors for symptomatic PICC-associated DVT with subsequent implementation of a quality improvement (QI) initiative to reduce PICC-associated DVT in patients with CF.

METHODS

This was a 5-year retrospective cohort study with subsequent 21-month prospective observation following implementation of a QI intervention in adults (aged 18 yr or older) with CF. All patients with a PICC inserted from July 2006 to March 2013 at our CF Foundation-accredited center were included. Symptomatic DVT was diagnosed by Doppler ultrasound. PICC insertions were analyzed, and nine risk factors for DVT were analyzed to formulate a QI initiative to reduce risk of PICC-associated DVT. The QI program focused on staff education and included modification to PICC order entry with a 4 French (F) single-lumen (SL) catheter as standard for all patients with CF.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

A total of 369 PICCs were analyzed in 117 unique patients for a total of 5,437 PICC-days of placement. Symptomatic DVT was diagnosed in 28 (7.6%) of the 369 PICCs analyzed. Using regression analysis, the strongest predictors for DVT occurrence were warfarin use (odds ratio [OR] = 9.2, P = 0.006) and history of PICC-associated DVT (OR = 2.97, P = 0.08). Insertion of a 4F SL PICC resulted in zero symptomatic DVT. Zero episodes of DVT associated with 4F PICC insertion prevented use of PICC size in regression analysis. However, univariate analysis revealed that insertion of a 4F SL PICC instead of either 5F double lumen or 6F triple lumen was associated with a reduction in PICC-associated DVT (P = 0.001). After the QI intervention, 4F SL catheter insertion substantially increased to 65.8% of all PICCs inserted, whereas 6F triple-lumen catheter insertion declined to 6.8% of PICCs inserted. The QI initiative resulted in an absolute risk reduction in DVT per PICC placed of 6.1% (P = 0.055).

CONCLUSIONS

To reduce risk of PICC-associated DVT in patients with CF, QI strategies should focus on insertion of smaller-diameter 4F PICCs and reduction in PICC use in high-risk patients when possible.