Central venous catheters: the role of radiology

Numerical modelling of the interaction between dialysis catheter, vascular vessel and blood considering elastic structural deformation

The dialysis catheter indwelling in human bodies has a high risk of inducing thrombus and stenosis. Biomechanical research showed that such physiological complications are triggered by the wall shear stress of the vascular vessel. This study aimed to assess the impact of CVC implantation on central venous haemodynamics and the potential alterations in the haemodynamic environment related to thrombus development. The SVC structure was built from the images from computed tomography. The blood flow was calculated using the Carreau model, and the fluid domain was determined by CFD. The vascular wall and the CVC were computed using FEA. The elastic interaction between the vessel wall and the flow field was considered using FSI simulation. With consideration of the effect of coupling, it was shown that the catheter vibrated in the vascular systems due to the periodic variation of blood pressure, with an amplitude of up to 10% of the vessel width. Spiral flow was observed along the catheter after CVC indwelling, and recirculation flow appeared near the catheter tip. High OSI and WSS regions occurred at the catheter tip and the vascular junction. The arterial lumen tip had a larger effect on the WSS and OSI values on the vascular wall. Considering FSI simulation, the movement of the catheter inside the blood flow was simulated in the deformable vessel. After CVC indwelling, spiral flow and recirculation flow were observed near the regions with high WSS and OSI values.

Anatomical Structures to Be Concerned With During Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Procedures

BACKGROUND

The central line has been frequently used for drug and nutrition supply and regular blood sampling of patients with chronic diseases. However, this procedure is performed in a highly sensitive area and has several potential complications. Therefore, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), which have various advantages, are being extensively used. Although the number of PICC procedures is increasing, the anatomy for safe procedures has not yet been properly established. Therefore, we studied basic anatomical information for safe procedures.

METHODS

We used 20 fixed cadavers (40 arms) donated to the Korea University College of Medicine. The mean age was 76.75 years (range, 48-94 years). After dissection of each arm, the distribution pattern of the basilic vein and close structures was recorded, and some important parameters based on bony landmarks were measured. In addition, the number of vein branches (axillary region) and basilic vein diameter were also checked.

RESULTS

The mean length from the insertion site to the right atrium was 38.39 ± 2.63 cm (left) and 34.66 ± 3.60 cm (right), and the basilic vein diameter was 4.93 ± 1.18 mm (left) and 4.08 ± 1.49 mm (right). The data showed significant differences between the left and right arms (P < 0.05). The mean distance from the basilic vein to brachial artery was 8.29 ± 2.78 mm in men and 7.81 ± 2.78 mm in women, while the distance to the ulnar nerve was 5.41 ± 1.67 mm in men and 5.52 ± 2.06 mm in women.

CONCLUSION

According to these results, the right arm has a shorter distance from the insertion site to the right atrium, and the left arm has a wider vein diameter, which is advantageous for the procedure. In addition, the ulnar nerve and brachial artery were located close to or behind the insertion site. Therefore, special attention is required during the procedure to avoid damaging these important structures.

Non-tunneled catheter tip depth position in urgent hemodialysis: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The average accepted depth for non-tunneled catheters (NTC) insertion does not guarantee its correct position, so controversy exists. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of two NTC placement depths on the number of NTC complication episodes.

METHODS

We designed a triple blind, parallel group, randomized controlled trial in a single Hemodialysis Center in Mexico (Registry: ACTRN12619000774123). We included patients in urgent need of hemodialysis via internal right jugular vein NTC. The length of the NTC tip placement depth was randomized to second intercostal space (2ICS) or fourth intercostal space (4ICS), using physical landmarks. The primary outcome was to compare the composite number of NTC dysfunction, repositioning, and relocation episodes for 48 hours post-procedure.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-five patients were included, 86 and 79 patients to NTC placement in the 2ICS and 4ICS, respectively. All patients underwent intention-to-treat analysis. The incidence of the composite outcome was lower in the 2ICS group compared to the 4ICS group, 4 (4.6%) and 50 (63%) combined episodes, respectively (P<0.001). Compared to the 4ICS group, the 2ICS group presented a relative risk of 0.06 (CI: 0.02-0.21, P<0.001) and number needed to treat (NNT) of 2.1. No adverse events occurred, derived from the NTC placement.

CONCLUSIONS

NTC tip placement in the 2ICS compared to 4ICS decreases the incidence of the combined number of dysfunctions, repositioning and relocation episodes, with a NNT of 2 for its prevention.

A case of accidental displacement of a central venous catheter in lung parenchyma leading to hydrothorax: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Effective critical care requires the placement of a central venous catheter (CVC), which is frequently indicated for volume resuscitation, hemodynamic assessment, and the administration of vasopressors, blood products, and parenteral nourishment. However, central venous catheterization is not without its complications. The majority of these problems are avoidable and treatable with proper patient selection, cautious insertion technique, and attention after catheter insertion.

CASE

We present a case of a 34-year-old male patient who developed unilateral hydrothorax as a result of a central venous catheter malposition in the lung parenchyma. The condition was resolved since the complication was identified and treated quickly.

CONCLUSION

Previous studies have revealed a few unusual incidences of catheter misplacement. This case report can be serviceable to the medical community as they should be aware of this unique presentation, it's management and outcome.

Push-pull monorail technique to overcome a difficult course through the left internal jugular vein

BACKGROUND

We assessed the outcomes of a push-pull monorail technique to overcome a difficult anatomical course through the left internal jugular vein in implantable port insertions.

METHODS

From December 2018 to May 2021, a total of 5326 patients were referred for implantable port insertion in our interventional unit, among which 472 cases were requested for insertion on the left side. Our monorail technique was applied only when the catheter tip entered the azygos vein instead of the superior vena cava (n = 8). The technique consists of a puncture at the distal tip of the port catheter with a 21-gauge micropuncture needle, advancing a 0.018-inch hair-wire to the guide, providing support for the pre-assembled port, and advancing the microsheath over the hair-wire to prevent extrusion of the catheter.

RESULTS

The push-pull monorail technique was performed in eight patients, and all cases were technically successful, exhibiting a technical success rate of 100%. There were no immediate or delayed complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The push-pull monorail technique is helpful in overcoming the difficult anatomical course through the left internal jugular vein during implantable port insertion.

Delayed diagnosis of a retained guidewire after bedside femoral venous catheter insertion: A preventable complication

Central venous catheter (CVC) insertion is a commonly performed procedure that is used for continuous invasive hemodynamic monitoring, fluid resuscitation, drug therapy, and hemodialysis. CVC placement can be associated with serious complications that are mostly preventable. One of these complications is the loss of the guidewire within the intravascular space, which carries a high morbidity and mortality. Here, we describe a 44-year old patient who presented with acute kidney injury and metabolic derangements that necessitated bedside right femoral dialysis catheter to initiate emergent renal replacement therapy. A day after the catheter insertion, the guidewire was noted on a routine chest X-ray extending into the base of the skull. The clinical course was complicated with cerebral infarction. Subsequently, the retained guidewire was removed a few days after the CVC insertion. In summary, the retained guidewire within the circulation is associated with potentially life-threatening and hazardous outcomes. Continuing education, vigilant supervision, and implementing certain protocols are likely to prevent such undesirable events.

Management of Central Venous Access in Children With Intestinal Failure: A Position Paper From the NASPGHAN Intestinal Rehabilitation Special Interest Group

ABSTRACT

Intestinal failure requires the placement and maintenance of a long-term central venous catheter for the provision of fluids and/or nutrients. Complications associated with this access contribute to significant morbidity and mortality, while the loss of access is an increasingly common reason for intestinal transplant referral. As more emphasis has been placed on the prevention of central line-associated bloodstream infections and new technologies have developed, care for central lines has improved; however, because care has evolved independently in local centers, care of central venous access varies significantly in this vulnerable population. The present position paper from the Intestinal Failure Special Interest Group of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (NASPGHAN) reviews current evidence and provides recommendations for central line management in children with intestinal failure.

Impact of body posture change on peripherally inserted central catheter tip position in Chinese cancer patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of body posture change on the peripherally inserted central catheter tip position in Chinese cancer patients.

METHODS

A prospective observational trial was conducted in a tertiary cancer hospital from August to September 2018. After the insertion of peripherally inserted central catheter, chest X-ray films were taken to check the catheter tip in the upright and supine positions, respectively. The distance from the carina to the catheter tip was separately measured on both chest films by nurses. The primary study outcome was the distance and direction of the catheter tip movement. The secondary study outcome was to analyze the influence factors on the catheter tip movement. The third study outcome was to observe the related adverse events caused by the catheter tip movement.

RESULTS

A total of 79 patients were included, the results showed that 61 moved cephalad, 14 moved caudally, and 4 did not move with body change from the supine to the upright position. When moved cephalad, the mean distance was 19.34 ± 11.95 mm; when moved caudally, the mean distance was -15.83 ± 8.97 mm. The difference between the two positions was statistically significant (p < 0.001). There was also a statistically significant difference between catheter tip movement direction and body mass index (p = 0.009) and height (p = 0.015). Two patients developed arrhythmias; no cardiac tamponade was found due to body posture change.

CONCLUSION

The results of this work implied that the tips of the catheter tend to shift toward the cephalad with body change from the supine to the upright position. A study involving a larger sample size is needed to find more information in the future.

Local Anesthesia for Port Catheter Placement in Oncology Patients: An Alternative to Landmark Technique Using Ultrasound-Guided Superficial Cervical Plexus Block-A Prospective Randomized Study

Background/Objectives

Most patients that require port operation have experienced severe pain due to multiple surgeries in the past. Therefore, these patients have fear of pain before the procedure. This study aims to compare superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB) with local infiltration anesthesia in terms of comfort.

Methods

100 cancer-diagnosed patients were divided into two groups. The first group, the landmark technique with local infiltration anesthesia, was used for intravenous entry (Group LM, n = 50). The second group, USG, was used for venous entry with SCPB as anesthesia (Group US, n = 50). The type of local anesthesia, port placement technique, duration of the procedure, number of procedures, complications, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and surgeon's satisfaction with the procedure were recorded.

Results

It was established that an average of 1.7 and 1.1 attempts was conducted in Groups LM and US, respectively (P = 0.010). VAS scores were found to be 4.04 in Group LM and 2.62 in GroupUS (P = 0.001). Surgeon satisfaction was 1.96 in GroupLM and 2.38 in GroupUS (P = 0.014). The mean duration of the procedure was 22.10 minutes in GroupLM and 43.50 minutes in GroupUS (P = 0.001). Complication rates were observed in 1 patient in GroupLM and 9 patient in GroupUS (P = 0.040).

Conclusions

In the patient group with a high level of pain and anxiety port catheter placement using USG and SCPB, supported by routine sedation, provides better comfort for both patient and surgeon.

Displacement of a power-injectable PICC following computed tomography pulmonary angiogram

Displacement of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) lines during contrast-enhanced computed tomography examinations is an underappreciated phenomenon. We report a case of iatrogenic PICC line displacement following the power injection of contrast during a computed tomography pulmonary angiogram. During the study, the PICC line was shown to move on 2 occasions, resulting in 2 nondiagnostic studies. We review the available literature on the topic and suggest possible strategies to avoid this phenomenon. Radiologists should be aware of PICC line migration, and it should become common practice to review the catheter tip position after computed tomography examinations.

Cephalad dislocation of PICCs under different upper limb positions: influence of age, gender, BMI, number of lumens

PURPOSE

To evaluate parameters that influence the amount of movement of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) tips regarding upper limb movement.

METHODS

In a prospective 12-month observational study, 200 PICCs were implanted in 162 patients (mean age 56.8 ± 15.2 years) by interventional radiologists into the basilic vein of the mid-aspect of the upper arm. Three PICC tip positions were documented with a chest x-ray: patient supine with an abducted (90°), an adducted arm, and in an upright position with an adducted arm. Multivariable analyses were performed, based on the three positions: body mass index (BMI), number of lumens, age, gender, side of the implantation, and brand.

RESULTS

Up to 88% of the PICCs dislocated in a mean of 19 mm cephalad when the patient was positioned from a supine in an upright position. The greatest influence upon dislocation was the position change from supine to upright. The side of the implanted PICC (left vs. right) had no influence.

CONCLUSIONS

Cephalad dislocations of mean 19 mm regularly occur in the upright position induced by gravity. This needs to be taken in account and the PICC should be safely positioned one vertebra lower in the superior vena cava superior with a last confirmation of the PICC placement in an upright position.

Central Venous Line Insertion Revealing Partial Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return: Diagnosis and Management

Central venous line malposition is a well-known complication of line insertion. Rarely, it can be mal-positioned in an anomalous pulmonary vein. We present an unusual case of a 56-year-old woman that was found to have partial anomalous pulmonary venous return on central venous line insertion. In this report, we describe a systematic approach to diagnosis and management of this unusual situation.

Nerve Damage Secondary to Removal of Fractured PICC Fragment

Purpose

To increase awareness of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) fracture and necessary nursing assessment to identify development of nerve injury after removal of the PICC fracture.

Methods

This is a case review of a cancer patient with fractured PICC and the postoperative symptoms leading to nerve injury.

Results

The reason for PICC fracture is the fragility of silicon. Secondary surgical intervention of a PICC fragment resulted in nerve damage from a hematoma placing pressure on the median nerve in the arm.

Conclusions

It is necessary to use power injectable polyurethane PICCs. It is vital to have a clear understanding of signs and symptoms of nerve impingement in the arm when monitoring a post-operative patient. Assessment of neurological status, circulation, swelling and patient complaints of pain are all necessary functions of the nurse in caring for this type of patient.

The Direct and Indirect Costs of Ultrasound-Guided Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Repositioning at a Large Academic Medical Center

Background: To assess the technical success of ultrasound (US)-guided peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement at a large academic medical center and evaluate the direct and indirect costs associated with malpositioned catheters.

Methods: This retrospective chart review consisted of 250 consecutive inpatients and 150 consecutive outpatients (N = 400, aged 58 ± 17 years, 225 men and 175women) who underwent US-guided PICC placement at a single center. Repositioning rates were compared between high-complexity (inpatient) and low-complexity (outpatient) groups using a χ2 test and phi coefficient. Initial and final catheter tip position was assessed by radiography. Direct costs of repositioning were estimated using Medicare reimbursement rates. Indirect costs, including additional staff time, imaging, and delays in treatment, were assessed via a survey of PICC nurses and chart reviews.

Results: Initial PICC placement resulted in an optimal tip position in 34% of patients and an optimal or acceptable position in 84% of patients. Repositioning rates were significantly higher for inpatients with a low to moderate association between inpatient PICC placement and the need for repositioning (χ2 = 9.603, P = .002; σ = 0.155, P = .002). In total, 77 catheters required repositioning, costing on average an additional $186.03 and 50 minutes of staff time per catheter as well as delaying catheter use in 23 patients for at least 24 hours.

Conclusions: PICC malpositioning is a significant source of inefficiency, especially for inpatient services, that should be addressed to reduce expenditures and maximize patients' perceptions of quality health care.

The Monorail Technique to Overcome Difficult Anatomical Course During Implantation of Central Venous Port via the Left Internal Jugular Vein

PURPOSE

The study aimed to introduce a monorail technique to overcome difficult anatomical course via left internal jugular vein in implantable port insertion.

METHODS

From 2007 to 2016, a total of 9346 patients were referred for implantable port insertion in our interventional unit, among which 79 cases were requested to insert on the left side. Our monorail technique was applied only when the technical challenge of the catheter tip entering the azygos vein instead of the superior vena cava occurred (n = 7). The technique consists of puncturing at the distal tip of the port catheter with a 21-gauge micropuncture needle and advancing a 0.018-in. hair-wire to guide and provide support for pre-assembled port.

RESULTS

The monorail technique was performed in seven patients and all but one case were technically successful, showing a technical success rate of 85.7%. There were no immediate or delayed complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The monorail technique is helpful to overcome the difficult anatomical course via left internal jugular vein in implantable port insertion.

Management of Parenteral Nutrition in Hospitalized Adult Patients [Formula: see text]

Despite the high prevalence of malnutrition in adult hospitalized patients, surveys continue to report that many clinicians are undertrained in clinical nutrition, making targeted nutrition education for clinicians essential for best patient care. Clinical practice models also continue to evolve, with more disciplines prescribing parenteral nutrition (PN) or managing the cases of patients who are receiving it, further adding to the need for proficiency in general PN skills. This tutorial focuses on the daily management of adult hospitalized patients already receiving PN and reviews the following topics: (1) PN basics, including the determination of energy and volume requirements; (2) PN macronutrient content (protein, dextrose, and intravenous fat emulsion); (3) PN micronutrient content (electrolytes, minerals, vitamins, and trace elements); (4) alteration of PN for special situations, such as obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia, refeeding, and hepatic/renal disease; (5) daily monitoring and adjustment of PN formula; and (6) PN-related complications (PN-associated liver disease and catheter-related complications).

Apparent migration of implantable port devices: normal variations in consideration of BMI

PURPOSE

To evaluate the extent of normal variation in implantable port devices between supine fluoroscopy and upright chest x-ray in relation to body mass index (BMI) based on three different measurement methods.

METHODS

Retrospectively, 80 patients with implanted central venous access port systems from 2012-01-01 until 2013-12-31 were analyzed. Three parameters (two quantitative and one semi-quantitative) were determined to assess port positions: projection of port capsule to anterior ribs (PCP) and intercostal spaces, ratio of extra- and intravascular catheter portions (EX/IV), normalized distance of catheter tip to carina (nCTCD). Changes were analyzed for males and females and normal-weight and overweight patients using analysis of variance with Bonferroni-corrected pairwise comparison.

RESULTS

PCP revealed significantly greater changes in chest x-rays in overweight women than in the other groups (p&lt;0.001, F-test). EX/IV showed a significantly higher increase in overweight women than normal-weight women and men and overweight men (p&lt;0.001). nCTCD showed a significantly greater increase in overweight women than overweight men (p = 0.0130). There were no significant differences between the other groups. Inter- and intra-observer reproducibility was high (Cronbach alpha of 0.923-1.0) and best for EX/IV.

CONCLUSIONS

Central venous port systems show wide normal variations in the projection of catheter tip and port capsule. In overweight women apparent catheter migration is significantly greater compared with normal-weight women and with men. The measurement of EX/IV and PCP are straightforward methods, quick to perform, and show higher reproducibility than measurement of catheter tip-to-carina distance.

Central Venous Catheter Intravascular Malpositioning: Causes, Prevention, Diagnosis, and Correction

Despite the level of skill of the operator and the use of ultrasound guidance, central venous catheter (CVC) placement can result in CVC malpositioning, an unintended placement of the catheter tip in an inadequate vessel. CVC malpositioning is not a complication of central line insertion; however, undiagnosed CVC malpositioning can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The objectives of this review were to describe factors associated with intravascular malpositioning of CVCs inserted via the neck and chest and to offer ways of preventing, identifying, and correcting such malpositioning. A literature search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and MD Consult was performed in June 2014. By searching for “Central line malposition” and then for “Central venous catheters intravascular malposition,” we found 178 articles written in English. Of those, we found that 39 were relevant to our objectives and included them in our review. According to those articles, intravascular CVC malpositioning is associated with the presence of congenital and acquired anatomical variants, catheter insertion in left thoracic venous system, inappropriate bevel orientation upon needle insertion, and patient’s body habitus variants. Although plain chest radiography is the standard imaging modality for confirming catheter tip location, signs and symptoms of CVC malpositioning even in presence of normal or inconclusive conventional radiography findings should prompt the use of additional diagnostic methods to confirm or rule out CVC malpositioning. With very few exceptions, the recommendation in cases of intravascular CVC malpositioning is to remove and relocate the catheter. Knowing the mechanisms of CVC malpositioning and how to prevent, identify, and correct CVC malpositioning could decrease harm to patients with this condition.

Useful Equation for Proper Estimate of Left Side Peripherally Inserted Central Venous Catheter Length in Relation to the Height

Purpose

Direct measurement of venous length is easy to cause contamination during bedside insertion of peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC). It is necessary to provide an equation for proper estimate of catheter length in case of bedside insertion of PICC in relation to patient height.

Methods

For 165 PICC cases through left arm vein in 151 adult patients (male: female = 72:79), the cubital crease to carina length (CCL) was calculated as follows: CCL = (distance from cubital crease to puncture point) + (length of PICC inside body) – (distance from carina to catheter tip on post-procedural chest radiograph). We analyzed the relationship between CCL and height with regression analysis and suggest a new equation of CCL based on height.

Results

The mean CCL through the left arm vein was 47.1 ± 2.6 cm in male and 44.0 ± 2.9 cm in female. CCL was significantly correlated with patient height. Equation of CCL (cm) based on height was as follows: CCL = height* 0.19 + 14.

Conclusions

The equation of our study would provide a new equation for proper estimation of catheter length in case of bedside insertion of left arm PICC in relation to height and be helpful for optimal positioning of catheter tip of PICC.

Central vascular catheters versus peripherally inserted central catheters in nurse anesthesia. A perspective within the Greek health system

PURPOSE

We present a study comparing the insertion of central vascular catheter (CVC) and peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) by an anesthesia nurse at 2 Greek University Hospitals.

METHODS

Eighty patients, aged 20-80 years, were enrolled in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups. In group A (41 patients), a CVC was inserted in the internal jugular vein. In group B (39 patients), a pressure-injectable PICC was inserted in the basilica vein.

RESULTS

Correlations between the methods applied, the patients' characteristics, the procedures' characteristics and the overall satisfaction scores for each procedure were examined. The final results show that the patients of group B (PICC method) were more satisfied with the procedure than the patients of group A (CVC method), at the statistical significance level of a=0.01. Also, according to the results of the analysis, the PICC method offers significantly more comfort and relative satisfaction than the CVC method, at the statistical significance level of a=0.01. The satisfaction scores of "physicians" were statistically more significant, at a=0.01, for the patients of group A (classic CVCs) mainly because of the insufficient flow rate of the PICCs when compared with the CVCs and especially if one considers the fact that the physicians did not have any experience with the PICC method at all.

CONCLUSIONS

PICCs under ultrasound guidance constitute the solution of choice for patients and they definitely surpass the CVCs focusing mainly on the improvement of the quality of life and the satisfaction of patients.

Imaging and management of complications of central venous catheters

Central venous catheters (CVCs) provide valuable vascular access. Complications associated with the insertion and maintenance of CVCs includes pneumothorax, arterial puncture, arrhythmias, line fracture, malposition, migration, infection, thrombosis, and fibrin sheath formation. Image-guided CVC placement is now standard practice and reduces the risk of complications compared to the blind landmark insertion technique. This review demonstrates the imaging of a range of complications associated with CVCs and discusses their management with catheter salvage techniques.

Persistent left superior vena cava: review of the literature, clinical implications, and relevance of alterations in thoracic central venous anatomy as pertaining to the general principles of central venous access device placement and venography in cancer patients

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) represents the most common congenital venous anomaly of the thoracic systemic venous return, occurring in 0.3% to 0.5% of individuals in the general population, and in up to 12% of individuals with other documented congential heart abnormalities. In this regard, there is very little in the literature that specifically addresses the potential importance of the incidental finding of PLSVC to surgeons, interventional radiologists, and other physicians actively involved in central venous access device placement in cancer patients. In the current review, we have attempted to comprehensively evaluate the available literature regarding PLSVC. Additionally, we have discussed the clinical implications and relevance of such congenital aberrancies, as well as of treatment-induced or disease-induced alterations in the anatomy of the thoracic central venous system, as they pertain to the general principles of successful placement of central venous access devices in cancer patients. Specifically regarding PLSVC, it is critical to recognize its presence during attempted central venous access device placement and to fully characterize the pattern of cardiac venous return (i.e., to the right atrium or to the left atrium) in any patient suspected of PLSVC prior to initiation of use of their central venous access device.

Challenges in the Accurate Identification of the Ideal Catheter Tip Location

The chest radiograph has been the primary tool to identify the catheter tip location after bedside placement of central venous access devices (CVADs), especially with peripherally inserted central catheters. The targeted ideal landing zone for a CVAD has evolved over time to the lower third of the superior vena cava, near the juncture of the right atrium. This article will discuss the evolution in the narrowing of the ideal targeted zone for landing the CVAD tip, and the issues around perception of “seeing” the catheter tip in the chest radiograph that can be imprecise and inaccurate. A brief overview of emerging technologies that capitalize on individual patient's internal physiologic characteristics to better identify this ideal landing zone will be presented.

Difficult central venous access removal: case reports of the use of endovascular snare shearing of endothelialized tetherings

Although a fibrin sheath occurs in most long-standing central venous catheters, they do not typically interfere with complete removal of the catheter. We present 2 cases of long-standing catheters that could not be removed with simple surgical techniques because of endotheliazation via fibrous attachments to the venous wall. Both catheters were successfully removed using a modified snare technique through the right femoral vein.

Stent-grafts in the management of life-threatening hemorrhage following inadvertent femoral catheterization in high-risk patients: report of two cases and review of the literature

Bleeding related to inadvertent femoral catheter insertion is an infrequent but morbid complication. We report two cases of acute life-threatening bleeding after attempts at femoral vein catheterization. Both patients were morbidly obese, had multiple comorbidities, and were at high risk for surgical intervention. Aggressive resuscitation failed to stabilize the patients. Emergency digital subtraction angiography diagnosed the site of the femoral artery bleeding. In one patient, the site of injury was the right profunda femoris artery. Both bleeding sites were controlled successfully with endovascular covered stent placement, without complication. Although prior publications have reported the concept of endovascular repair in femoral artery injuries, to the best of the author’s knowledge, covering the profunda femoris artery with no complications has not been described previously. In critically ill patients with life-threatening hemorrhage following inadvertent femoral catheterization, management with endovascular covered stents is safe and effective.

Precision in Central Venous Catheter Tip Placement: A Review of the Literature

Background: Long term venous catheters have been used to deliver specialized therapies since 1968. The ideal tip position of a central venous catheter provides reliable venous access with optimal therapeutic delivery, while minimizing short-and long-term complications. Ideal position limits have evolved and narrowed over time, making successful placement difficult and unreliable when depending exclusively on the landmark technique.

Objective: To review and analyze contemporary literature and calculate an overall accuracy rate for first attempt placement of a PICC catheter in the ideal tip position.

Methods: Key PICC placement terms were used to search the database PubMED-indexed for MEDLINE in June and October, 2009. The selection of studies required: a patient cohort without tip placement guidance technology; a documented landmark technique to place catheter tips; data documenting initial catheter placement and, that the lower third of the SVC and the cavo-atrial junction (CAJ) were included in the placement criteria. With few exceptions, articles written between 1993 and 2009 met the stated selection criteria. A composite of outcomes associated with tip placement was analyzed, and an overall percent proficiency of accurate catheter tip placement calculated.

Results: Nine studies in eight articles met the selection criteria and were included for analysis. Rates of first placement success per study ranged from 39% to 75%, with the majority (7/9) being single center studies. The combined overall proficiency of these studies calculated as a weighted average was 45.87%.

Infectious and thrombotic complications of central venous catheters

OBJECTIVE

To provide a review of the pathogenesis, prevention, and management strategies of infectious and thrombotic complications of central venous access devices (CVADs).

DATA SOURCE

Journal articles, case reports, product information, personal experience, professional guidelines.

CONCLUSION

Infectious and thrombotic catheter-related complications are common and serious complications that can negatively impact patient outcomes. There has been significant national attention on patient safety, and in particular, the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infections.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Clinicians have a crucial role in preventing and identifying CVAD-related complications. Understanding the pathogenesis of infectious and thrombotic complications, the principles of best practice, and adhering to these practices consistently, in all practice settings, are critical in order to minimize unnecessary risks to patients with an indwelling CVAD.

ICU procedures of the critically ill

Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients often require urgent, high-risk diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. However, they are particularly vulnerable to procedural complications due to the severity and instability of their illnesses. We discuss the complications associated with bronchoscopy, percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy, pleural interventions for example thoracentesis and chest tube placement, central venous catheterization and pulmonary artery catheterization. Invasive procedures are frequently performed in critically ill patients. It is important for the operator to be familiar with the specific complications of each procedure, as well as steps to take in order to enhance safety and reduce adverse events. High standards of training and credentialing are crucial to ensure that the ICU physicians are proficient in performing these procedures.

Imaging of the complications of peripherally inserted central venous catheters

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) are widely used to provide central venous access, often in chronically ill patients with long-term intravenous access requirements. There are a number of significant complications related to both insertion and maintenance of PICC lines, including catheter malposition, migration, venous thrombosis, and line fracture. The incidence of these complications is likely to rise as the number of patients undergoing intravenous outpatient therapy increases, with a corresponding rise in radiologist input. This paper provides an overview of the relevant peripheral and central venous anatomy, including anatomical variations, and outlines the complications of PICC lines. Imaging examples demonstrate the range of radiological findings seen in these complications.

Replacement of inadvertently discontinued tunneled jugular high-flow central catheters with tract recannulation: technical results and outcome

PURPOSE

To determine the technical and clinical outcomes of recannulating the tracts of inadvertently discontinued high-flow tunneled internal jugular central venous catheters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review was performed of 49 patients who underwent 57 replacements of inadvertently discontinued catheters by recannulation from January 1997 through January 2005. The study group was divided into successful and failed recannulation groups. Technical results were evaluated for duration the catheter had been out, tract age, and laterality (ie, right vs left). Infection rate was calculated by Kaplan-Meier method and the infection rate per 100 catheter days was calculated. Intent-to-treat function rate (including failed recannulations) was calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Seventy percent (n = 40) of discontinued catheters were right-sided and 30% (n = 17) were left-sided. The overall technical success rate was 86% (n = 49). The technical success rates were 100% (n = 10), 89% (32 of 36), and 64% (seven of 11) for catheters that had been outside the body for less than 12 hours, 12-24 hours, and more than 24 hours, respectively. P values for successful versus failed recannulations for tract age, the time the catheter was out, and laterality were .02, .04, and .68, respectively. The infection rate for successful recannulations at 6 months was 24% +/- 9% (0.22 infections per 100 catheter days). Functional catheter rates at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months were 55% +/- 8%, 46% +/- 8%, 29% +/- 10%, and 5% +/- 3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Recannulating tunneled high-flow jugular catheter tracts has a high technical success rate, particularly when they have fallen out less than 24 hours earlier and have a mature tract. The outcomes of recannulated catheters (ie, infection and function rates) are within the upper limit of results of de novo placement and over-the-wire exchange of catheters in the literature.

Radiologically Placed Tunneled Internal Jugular Catheters in the Management of Chronic Hemodialysis and Long-term Infusion Therapies in the Pediatric Population

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of radiologically inserted dual-lumen hemodialysis and infusion catheters in pediatric patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of 114 tunneled internal jugular catheters in 71 consecutive pediatric patients between March 2003 and May 2006. Forty hemodialysis catheters were placed in 23 patients (11 girls, 12 boys), and 74 infusion catheters were placed in 48 patients (14 girls, 34 boys). The mean patient age was 11.2 years (range, 1-16 years) in the hemodialysis group and 7.86 years (range, 4 months to 16 years) in the infusion group.

RESULTS

The technical success rate was 100%. The mean duration of catheter use was 84 days (range, 5-730 days) in the hemodialysis group and 58 days (range, 3-206 days) in the infusion group. Nine hemodialysis (22%) and 29 infusion (39%) catheters were electively removed. The most common reasons for catheter removal were malfunction (22%) in the hemodialysis group and completion of therapy (39%) in the infusion group. Revisions were performed at a rate of 0.6 and 0.4 per 100 catheters days in the hemodialysis and infusion groups, respectively. Total infection rates were 0.15 and 0.38 episodes per 100 catheter days in hemodialysis and infusion catheters, respectively. Mean primary device service intervals were 86 and 60 days for hemodialysis and infusion catheters, respectively, with total access site service intervals of 140 and 71 days.

CONCLUSION

Radiologically placed tunneled internal jugular catheters appear to be safe and effective, with very low complication rates for both hemodialysis and long-term infusion therapies. Higher infection rates were seen in patients with cancer.

Ultrasound-guided interventional radiology in critical care

Ultrasound-guided intervention is becoming an increasingly popular and valuable tool in the critical care setting. In general, image-guided procedures can expedite wait times and increase the accuracy, safety, and efficacy of many procedures commonly performed within intensive care units. In the intensive care unit setting, ultrasound has particular advantages over other imaging modalities such as computed tomography and fluoroscopy, including real-time visualization, portability permitting bedside procedures, and reduced exposure to nephrotoxic contrast agents. We review the technical and procedural aspects of a number of ultrasound-guided interventions appropriate for critical care patients. These include central venous catheter deployment, thoracentesis, paracentesis, and drainage of a wide variety of abscesses, and percutaneous nephrostomy, percutaneous cholecystectomy, and inferior vena cava filter placement. Although we believe ultrasound is significantly underutilized in critical care today, we anticipate that with the improvement of ultrasound technology and the innovation of new ultrasound-guided procedures, the role of ultrasound in the intensive care unit will continue to expand, with bedside ultrasound-guided interventions increasingly becoming the norm.

Découverte tardive chez un patient de réanimation d'une perforation de la veine cave supérieure par un cathéter veineux sous-clavier

Perforation is a central venous catheterization complication mainly observed in children. Usually, patients develop sudden shock early after catheterization. We report an asymptomatic and delayed superior vena cava perforation after subclavian venous adult catheterization discovered by contrast injection tomography.