Systematic review of the safety and efficacy of contrast injection via venous catheters for contrast-enhanced computed tomography

Risk Factors for Contrast Media Extravasation in Intravenous Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography: An Observational Cohort Study

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

To identify the risk factors for contrast media (CM) extravasation and provide effective guidance for reducing its incidence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We observed adult inpatients (n = 38 281) who underwent intravenous contrast-enhanced computed tomography between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2022. Risk factors for CM extravasation were evaluated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among the 38 281 inpatients who underwent enhanced computed tomography angiography, 3885 received peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) and 34 396 received peripheral short catheters. In 3885 cases of PICCs, no CM extravasation occurred, but in five cases, ordinary PICCs that are unable to withstand high pressure were mistakenly used; three of those patients experienced catheter rupture, and eventually, all five patients underwent unplanned extubation. Among 34 396 cases of peripheral short catheters, 224 (0.65%) had CM extravasation. Female sex (odds ratio [OR]=1.541, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.111-2.137), diabetes (OR=2.265, 95% CI: 1.549-3.314), venous thrombosis (OR=2.157, 95% CI: 1.039-4.478), multi-site angiography (OR=9.757, CI: 6.803-13.994), and injection rate ≥ 3 mL/s (OR=6.073, 95% CI: 4.349-8.481) were independent risk factors for CM extravasation. Due to peripheral vascular protection measures in patients with malignant tumor, there was a low incidence of CM extravasation (OR=0.394, 95% CI: 0.272-0.570).

CONCLUSION

Main risk factors for CM extravasation are female, diabetes, venous thrombosis, multi-site angiography, and injection rate ≥ 3 mL/s. However, patients with malignant tumor have a low incidence of CM extravasation.

CLINICAL IMPACT

Analysis of these risk factors can help reduce the incidence of CM extravasation.

Final-year medical students' perspective: a survey on the use of computed tomography in sepsis

OBJECTIVES

To determine the perspective of final-year medical students on the use of computed tomography (CT) in patients with sepsis.

METHODS

A total of 207 questionnaires were distributed to final-year medical students at a large university medical center, and 113 returned questionnaires met the criteria for inclusion in the analysis. Questions referred to sepsis guidelines, CT indications, and the use of contrast agents. Control variables included a level of practical experience as a final-year student (trimester of student's practical year) and previous radiological experience. Statistical hypothesis tests such as the Mann-Whitney U test and chi-square test were performed.

RESULTS

The majority of participating students, 85% (n = 91/107), considered a Systemic Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score ≥ 2 as a diagnostic criterion for sepsis. The presence of ≥ 2 positive systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria was considered relevant for diagnosing sepsis by 34% (n = 34/100). Ninety-nine percent (n = 64/65) of the participants who fully agreed with a SOFA score ≥ 2 being relevant for diagnosing sepsis would also use it as an indication for a CT scan. Seventy-six percent (n = 78/103) of the students rated a known severe allergic reaction to contrast agents as an absolute contraindication for its administration. Ninety-five percent (n = 78/82) considered radiation exposure as problematic in CT examinations, especially in repeat CTs.

CONCLUSION

Most final-year medical students were familiar with the sepsis criteria. Still, some referred to outdated diagnostic criteria. Participants saw the ability to plan further patient management based on CT as a major benefit. Most participants were aware of radiation as a risk of CT.

CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

More detailed knowledge of CT in septic patients should be implemented in the medical curriculum. Retraining of medical students could help increase student confidence potentially improving patient care.

KEY POINTS

1. Whereas the majority of final-year medical students were familiar with sepsis criteria, some referred to outdated diagnostic criteria. 2. Participants saw the ability to plan further patient management based on CT as a major benefit. 3. Most participants were aware of radiation as a risk of CT.

Impact of intravenous access site on attenuation for thoracic computed tomographic angiography: A time-matched, nested, case-control study

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the choice of intravenous access (IVA) site affects aortic attenuation during thoracic computed tomographic angiography (T-CTA) and any associated risks with intravenous device placement.

METHODS

All T-CTA exams performed between 1/1/2013 and 8/14/2015 were retrospectively reviewed to identify those performed with contrast media injection via alternative (i.e. non-antecubital) IVA (n = 1769). Using time matching, antecubital IVA exams (n = 1769) were selected as controls. For each exam, attenuation was measured in the ascending aorta. Patient and technical data was subsequently collected from all 3538 patients included in this study. Multiple linear regression was used to determine if IVA site affected attenuation. Lastly, data related to extravasations for the entire T-CTA cohort were collected and compared.

RESULTS

Hand/wrist, arm, and central venous access device IVA were all equivalent to antecubital IVA in terms of attenuation (P = 0.579, P = 0.599, and P = 0.522 respectively). Forearm and intraosseous IVA had significantly higher attenuation (P = 0.010 and P = 0.002, respectively) than antecubital IVA. Right-sided IVA was associated with a small attenuation increase of 11 Hounsfield Units (P < 0.001) compared to left-sided IVA. In terms of extravasation, antecubital IVA was equivalent to hand/wrist, forearm, and upper arm IVA (P = 0.778, P = 0.060, and P = 0.090 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Satisfactory aortic attenuation achieved with non-antecubital IVA is equivalent to attenuation achieved with antecubital IVA for T-CTA imaging. The risk of contrast media extravasation in peripheral IVA devices was relatively low, however, appropriate IVA site selection should be considered an important factor for successful administration of contrast media for future imaging studies. This prevents undue harm to patients through preventable device failures when using a peripheral IV device in areas of high flexion/range of movements undergoing pressure injection for contrast media.

Intravenous contrast medium extravasation: systematic review and updated ESUR Contrast Media Safety Committee Guidelines

NEED FOR A REVIEW

Guidelines for management and prevention of contrast media extravasation have not been updated recently. In view of emerging research and changing working practices, this review aims to inform update on the current guidelines.

AREAS COVERED

In this paper, we review the literature pertaining to the pathophysiology, diagnosis, risk factors and treatments of contrast media extravasation. A suggested protocol and guidelines are recommended based upon the available literature.

KEY POINTS

• Risk of extravasation is dependent on scanning technique and patient risk factors. • Diagnosis is mostly clinical, and outcomes are mostly favourable. • Referral to surgery should be based on clinical severity rather than extravasated volume.

Central venous access devices for the delivery of systemic anticancer therapy (CAVA): a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Hickman-type tunnelled catheters (Hickman), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and totally implanted ports (PORTs) are used to deliver systemic anticancer treatment (SACT) via a central vein. We aimed to compare complication rates and costs of the three devices to establish acceptability, clinical effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of the devices for patients receiving SACT.

METHODS

We did an open-label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial (Cancer and Venous Access [CAVA]) of three central venous access devices: PICCs versus Hickman (non-inferiority; 10% margin); PORTs versus Hickman (superiority; 15% margin); and PORTs versus PICCs (superiority; 15% margin). Adults (aged ≥18 years) receiving SACT (≥12 weeks) for solid or haematological malignancy from 18 oncology units in the UK were included. Four randomisation options were available: Hickman versus PICCs versus PORTs (2:2:1), PICCs versus Hickman (1:1), PORTs versus Hickman (1:1), and PORTs versus PICCs (1:1). Randomisation was done using a minimisation algorithm stratifying by centre, body-mass index, type of cancer, device history, and treatment mode. The primary outcome was complication rate (composite of infection, venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolus, inability to aspirate blood, mechanical failure, and other) assessed until device removal, withdrawal from study, or 1-year follow-up. This study is registered with ISRCTN, ISRCTN44504648.

FINDINGS

Between Nov 8, 2013, and Feb 28, 2018, of 2714 individuals screened for eligibility, 1061 were enrolled and randomly assigned, contributing to the relevant comparison or comparisons (PICC vs Hickman n=424, 212 [50%] on PICC and 212 [50%] on Hickman; PORT vs Hickman n=556, 253 [46%] on PORT and 303 [54%] on Hickman; and PORT vs PICC n=346, 147 [42%] on PORT and 199 [58%] on PICC). Similar complication rates were observed for PICCs (110 [52%] of 212) and Hickman (103 [49%] of 212). Although the observed difference was less than 10%, non-inferiority of PICCs was not confirmed (odds ratio [OR] 1·15 [95% CI 0·78-1·71]) potentially due to inadequate power. PORTs were superior to Hickman with a complication rate of 29% (73 of 253) versus 43% (131 of 303; OR 0·54 [95% CI 0·37-0·77]). PORTs were superior to PICCs with a complication rate of 32% (47 of 147) versus 47% (93 of 199; OR 0·52 [0·33-0·83]).

INTERPRETATION

For most patients receiving SACT, PORTs are more effective and safer than both Hickman and PICCs. Our findings suggest that most patients receiving SACT for solid tumours should receive a PORT within the UK National Health Service.

FUNDING

UK National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme.

Optimizing Identification of Power Injectable Ports on the Scout Images for Multidetector Computed Tomography Procedures

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of tube voltage and image display on the identification of power ports features on anterior-posterior scout images to inform optimal workflow for multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) examinations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four ports, representing variable material composition (titanium/silicone), shapes, and computed tomography (CT) markings, were imaged on an adult anthropomorphic chest phantom using a dual-source MDCT at variable peak tube voltages (80, 100, 120, 150, and Sn150 kVp). Images were reviewed at variable image display setting by 5 blinded readers to assess port features of material composition, shape, and text markings as well as overall preferred image quality.

RESULTS

Material composition was correctly identified for all ports by all readers across all kilovoltage-peak settings. The identification by shape was more reliable than CT markers for all but one of the ports. CT marker identification was up to 80% for titanium ports at window level settings optimized for metal (window width, 200; window center, -150) and at a soft tissue setting (window width, 400; window center, 40) for silicone ports. Interreader agreement for best image quality per kilovoltage-peak setting was moderate to substantial for 3 ports (k = 0.5-0.62) but only fair for 1 port (k = 0.27). The highest overall rank for image quality was given unanimously to Sn150 kVp for imaging titanium ports and 100 kVp for silicone ports.

CONCLUSIONS

Power port identification on MDCT scout images can be optimized with modification of MDCT scout acquisition and display settings based on the main port material.

Hemodialysis catheter integrity during mechanical power injection of iodinated contrast medium for computed tomography angiography

PURPOSE

CT angiography (CTA) requires vascular access with flow rates of 5-7 mL/s. Hemodialysis (HD) is performed at 6-10 mL/s. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the structural integrity of HD catheters in the administration of contrast media via a mechanical power injector under varying conditions.

METHODS

Four HD catheters were evaluated in an in vitro study. Tested were contrast media type (iopamidol 300 and 370 mgI/mL), temperature (25 and 37 °C), catheter diameter (14 Fr to 16 Fr all with double-lumen capacity), catheter length (19-32 cm), and simultaneous double-lumen or single-lumen injection within each of the catheters. Peak plateau pressures (psi) were recorded with flow rates from 5 to 20 mL/s in 5 mL/s increments. In total, 864 unique injections were performed.

RESULTS

No catheter failure (bulging/rupture) was observed in 864 injections. Maximum pressure for single-lumen injection was 51.7 psi (double-lumen: 26.3 psi). Peak pressures were significantly lower in simultaneous double-lumen vs. single-lumen injections (p < 0.001) and low vs. high viscosity contrast media (p < 0.001). Neither larger vs. smaller diameter lumens (p = 0.221) nor single-lumen injection in arterial vs. venous (p = 0.834) were significantly different.

CONCLUSION

HD catheters can be used to safely administer iodinated contrast media via mechanical power injection in in vitro operating conditions. Maximum peak pressure is below the manufacturer's 30 psi limit at flow rates up to 20 mL/s in double-lumen injections and up to 10 mL/s in single-lumen injections, which is higher than the usual maximum of 8 mL/s for CT angiography in clinical settings.

Diagnosis and management of secondary malposition of PICC into the azygos vein

BACKGROUND

Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) has been widely used. The catheter-related complications might occur and the reports of secondary malposition into azygos veins were rare.

METHODS

This retrospective review summarized the experience in diagnosis and management of secondary malposition of PICC into azygos veins in 25 cases.

RESULTS

When the catheter dysfunction occurred in the PICC on the left limb, it was necessary to consider whether there would be malposition into azygos veins after other reasons were excluded. The malposition could be diagnosed by chest lateral radiograph or chest computed tomography. The secondary malposition into azygos veins was resolved by repositioning or withdrawing the PICC. After re-inserting the catheter, it should be closely monitored whether the malposition occurred again. Intracavitary electrocardiogram positioning technology was used to confirm the catheter tip position before using corrosive drug. After the catheters withdrawn from the azygos veins, close attention should be paid to the property and concentration of the infusion drug strictly and the complications such as blockage and re-malposition. No serious complications such as infection, thrombosis and extravasation occurred in this group of patients after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study suggested that the right limb is recommended for PICC catheterization in order to avoid secondary malposition into azygos veins and the malposition into azygos veins should be dealt with in time.

Meta-analysis of primary open versus closed cannulation strategy for totally implantable venous access port implantation

BACKGROUND

There is still no reference standard for the implantation of totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs). A recently published multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT) revealed a significantly greater risk of pneumothorax after closed cannulation than after an open strategy. The aim of this meta-analysis was to provide an update of the available evidence for the safety and effectiveness of primary open versus closed cannulation strategy.

METHODS

RCTs comparing outcomes of open cut-down of the cephalic vein and closed cannulation of the subclavian vein were sought systematically in MEDLINE, Web of Science and CENTRAL. The primary outcome was the occurrence of pneumothorax. A beta-binominal model was applied to combine the respective outcomes, and results are presented as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

Six RCTs with a total of 1831 patients were included in final analysis. Meta-analysis showed statistically significant superiority of the open cut-down technique regarding pneumothorax (OR 0.308, 95% CI 0.122 to 0.776), but a statistically significant higher failure of the primary technique for the open cut-down technique than for closed cannulation (OR 2.364, 95% CI 1.051 to 5.315). There were no significant differences between the two procedures regarding other morbidity endpoints.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis shows a general superiority of open cut-down of the cephalic vein over closed cannulation of the subclavian vein regarding the occurrence of pneumothorax. Open cut-down should be the first-line approach for TIVAP implantation. Closed cannulation should be performed with ultrasound as second-line procedure if the open technique fails.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42013005180.

Risk of contrast extravasation with vascular access in computed tomography

PURPOSE

Diagnostic computed tomography (CT) imaging, utilizing intravenous (IV) contrast administration, has become increasingly common. Potential IV contrast-associated complications include local skin and soft tissue reactions due to extravasation. The goal of this study is to describe the risk of contrast extravasation based on IV catheter anatomic location in patients receiving contrast-enhanced CT imaging.

METHODS

The study was conducted as a retrospective cohort study of patients receiving contrast-enhanced CT imaging performed over a 26-month period at a single institution. The rate of contrast extravasation was calculated by IV catheter vessel anatomic location and compared by relative risk (RR) and absolute risk reduction (ARR).

RESULTS

Of 17,767 contrast administrations for CT imaging studies performed, 14,558 met study inclusion criteria. Forty-nine (0.34%) extravasation events were identified. Forty-one (0.28%, 95% CI 0.21-0.39%) extravasation events were observed in 14,275 peripheral IV catheters placed in a non-upper arm location. Eight (2.8%, 95% CI 1.3-5.3%) extravasation events were observed in 283 IV catheters placed, most commonly with point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) guidance, in upper arm vessels (RR 10.1, 95% CI 4.69-21.8). Non-upper arm located IV catheters were associated with an ARR of 2.54% (95% CI 0.61-4.47%) when compared to upper arm catheters.

CONCLUSIONS

IV catheter placement in upper arm vessels is associated with a relatively minimal increase in extravasation risk when compared to catheters placed in a non-upper arm location. In patients without alternative available peripheral vascular access, POCUS-guided upper arm IV cannulation may be an appropriate approach.

Injection And Infusion Technology Disruption For Use In MRI

Introduction

Contrast media injections, infusions, or experiments that require a constant volume flow close to or within a very high magnetic field like in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) require a liquid reservoir and a power unit to deliver the fluid. However, most power units are driven by motors that are either not MRI-compatible or require external connections that restrict mobility and usage. In this paper, the development of a highly portable, lightweight, and MRI-compatible pump system is explained.

Methods

The energy required to deliver the flow is generated using a pressurized bottle concept. The valve inside the bottle is opened to create a flow which should be maintained constant. In order to find the optimal flow resistance for a constant flow rate, we created multiple setups with different flow resistance.

Results

We measured the flow rates for different flow resistances by attaching a restring valve to the bottle. The results clearly show that high flow resistance results in lower and more constant flow rate.

Discussion

The optimal flow rate achieved using our current setup was significantly constant but not ideal. Consequently, such a pump system can be used in many medical applications like MRI-compatible contrast agent injectors.

Dual energy computed tomography analysis in cancer patients: What factors affect iodine concentration in contrast enhanced studies?

PURPOSE

The aim of the study is to explore the patient's and scan's parameters that affect the iodine concentration in the abdomen using dual energy computed tomography (DECT) in an oncologic population.

METHOD

This is a retrospective study with consecutive patients with different cancers who underwent a single-source DECT (ssDECT) examinations at our institution between years 2015 and 2017. On axial IODINE images, the radiologist manually drew a circular ROI along the inner contour of the aorta. Mean iodine concentration and ROI areas were recorded. Body mass index for every patient was recorded. Descriptive statistics were summarized for iodine concentration and patient/scan characteristics. Linear regression was used to examine associations between iodine concentration in aorta and studied characteristics. Statistical significance was set at a p value < 0.05.

RESULTS

The univariate analysis, showed a statistically significant association between iodine concentration within the aorta and the area of ROI (Estimated Coefficient β: -0.013), the rate of injection (Estimated Coefficient β: 2.09), the acquisition time (Estimated Coefficient β: -0.195). In multivariable analysis iodine concentration in the aorta increased with higher rate of injection (4 ml/sec), smaller ROI area and lower BMI.

CONCLUSION

Our results showed how iodine concentration is highly dependent on some intrinsic and extrinsic parameters of the examination. These parameters should be taken into account since lower concentration of iodine decrease contrast-to-noise ratio, and in longitudinal follow up studies, they would affect iodine quantitive assessments in cancer patients with frequent chemotherapy-induced variations in BMI and cardiac function.

Computational evaluation of altered biomechanics related to articular cartilage lesions observed in vivo

Chondral lesions provide a potential risk factor for development of osteoarthritis. Despite the variety of in vitro studies on lesion degeneration, in vivo studies that evaluate relation between lesion characteristics and the risk for the possible progression of OA are lacking. Here, we aimed to characterize different lesions and quantify biomechanical responses experienced by surrounding cartilage tissue. We generated computational knee joint models with nine chondral injuries based on clinical in vivo arthrographic computed tomography images. Finite element models with fibril-reinforced poro(visco)elastic cartilage and menisci were constructed to simulate physiological loading. Systematically, the lesions experienced increased peak values of maximum principal strain, maximum shear strain, and minimum principal strain in the surrounding chondral tissue (p < 0.01) compared with intact tissue. Depth, volume, and area of the lesion correlated with the maximum shear strain (p < 0.05, Spearman rank correlation coefficient ρ = 0.733-0.917). Depth and volume of the lesion correlated also with the maximum principal strain (p < 0.05, ρ = 0.767, and ρ = 0.717, respectively). However, the lesion area had non-significant correlation with this strain parameter (p = 0.06, ρ = 0.65). Potentially, the introduced approach could be developed for clinical evaluation of biomechanical risks of a chondral lesion and planning an intervention. Statement of Clinical Relevance: In this study, we computationally characterized different in vivo chondral lesions and evaluated their risk of cartilage degeneration. This information is vital in decision-making for intervention in order to prevent post-traumatic osteoarthritis. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res.