Abstract

Background: Although it is common for central line catheters to develop a thrombotic occlusion, pediatric patients are at especially high risk of occlusion due to smaller vessels, smaller-gauge catheters, and slower rates of infusion. Mitigating catheter occlusions is costly, requiring tissue plasminogen activator, supplies, and nursing time. Our facility tested a novel neutral displacement needle-free valve designed to reduce occlusion.

Methodology: The organization determined a baseline occlusion rate for Hickman/Broviac catheters, in our 38-bed inpatient hematology/oncology department and our outpatient hematology/oncology clinic from August 2010 through October 2010. In 2011, a premarket test of the Neutron device (ICU Medical, San Clemente, CA) was conducted on the units. Based on the positive trial results, it was decided to implement the device housewide in December 2012.

Results: A comparison of baseline central line complete occlusion rates from August to October 2010 with Neutron trial data from July to October 2011. This pilot project demonstrated a 74.3% reduction (from a rate of 3.82 to a rate of 0.98) in all hematology/oncology department Hickman and Broviac complete catheter occlusions. Subsequently, comparing 5 months of housewide occlusion data from June through October 2012 to 2013, complete occlusions fell by 32.1% (from a rate of 1.56 to a rate of 1.06).

Conclusions: The use of the Neutron needle-free catheter patency device was associated with a reduction in complete occlusions. The corresponding reduction in treatment delays, nursing time spent managing occluded catheters, and fewer needlesticks to patients likely translates to financial benefit for the organization and improved patient and family satisfaction.

Abstract

Background: Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) occurs in approximately 1 in every 200 people, and with various malformations. Nurses who insert peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) may need to place a PICC line in this venous malformation.

Aims: To review the literature and assess the safety of positioning a PICC line in a PLSVC, and to also assess the ideal placement of a PICC line in a PLSVC with reference to a chest radiograph and intravenous electrocardiogram (IVECG) navigation.

Methodology: Literature search across 5 main databases, alongside hand-searched articles.

Results: No literature was found that prohibits placement of a PICC line in a PLSVC, unless the PLSVC enters the left atrium, and no literature was found that identifies an ideal position for the PICC tip in a PLSVC. Two approximate positions were highlighted: high in the PLSVC or passed through a bridging brachiocephalic vein to a right superior vena cava. Placing a PICC line in a PLSVC using IVECG navigation is shown to produce abnormal electrocardiogram readings.

Conclusions: A PICC line can be safely placed in a PLSVC as long as the PLSVC does not enter the left atrium, avoiding potential systemic embolization. Final positioning of the PICC tip on a chest radiograph is proposed to be in the midregion between the carina and the junction of the PLSVC/coronary sinus, with the aim of avoiding coronary sinus thrombosis and providing satisfactory dilution of infusate. If abnormal electrocardiogram readings during IVECG placement are seen, then PLSVC should be suspected. Further research and data are needed due to limited research in this area.

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate malfunction rates of subcutaneous chest ports placed via the internal jugular and subclavian veins. Analysis and preventive measures to reduce the risk of complication between the 2 sites of venous access will be discussed.

Methodology: Retrospective review of 114 patients with malfunctioning subcutaneous port-a-catheters was performed. Of those 114 patients, 77 had venous access via a subclavian approach, whereas the remaining 37 had internal jugular vein access. Port insertion placement was evaluated and analysis of the malfunction rate was performed.

Results: There were 36 patients with 38 subcutaneous port malfunctions from internal jugular vein access. Thirty-four of 38 complications (89%) were not related to insertion and 4 out of 38 (11%) were related to vascular access approach. Seventy-seven patients with malfunctioning subcutaneous ports placed via the subclavian vein had a total of 127 complications. Twenty-eight of 127 complications (22%) were not related to insertion and 99 out of 127 (78%) of the complications were directly related to venous access approach.

Conclusions: Subcutaneous port placement complications can be avoided by measuring the length of the port catheter under fluoroscopic guidance and positioning the tip within 2 cm of the cavoatrial junction. Also, the jugular vein should be the first site for access unless patient circumstances do not permit this approach.