Nomogram predicted risk of peripherally inserted central catheter related thrombosis

Machine Learning Predicts Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters-Related Deep Vein Thrombosis Using Patient Features and Catheterization Technology Features

This study aims to use patient feature and catheterization technology feature variables to train the corresponding machine learning (ML) models to predict peripherally inserted central catheters-deep vein thrombosis (PICCs-DVT) and analyze the importance of the two types of features to PICCs-DVT from the aspect of "input-output" correlation. To comprehensively and systematically summarize the variables used to describe patient features and catheterization technical features, this study combined 18 literature involving the two types of features in predicting PICCs-DVT. A total of 21 variables used to describe the two types of features were summarized, and feature values were extracted from the data of 1,065 PICCs patients from January 1, 2021 to August 31, 2022, to construct a data sample set. Then, 70% of the sample set is used for model training and hyperparameter optimization, and 30% of the sample set is used for PICCs-DVT prediction and feature importance analysis of three common ML classification models (i.e. support vector classifier [SVC], random forest [RF], and artificial neural network [ANN]). In terms of prediction performance, this study selected four metrics to evaluate the prediction performance of the model: precision (P), recall (R), accuracy (ACC), and area under the curve (AUC). In terms of feature importance analysis, this study chooses a single feature analysis method based on the "input-output" sensitivity principle-Permutation Importance. For the mean model performance, the three ML models on the test set are P = 0.92, R = 0.95, ACC = 0.88, and AUC = 0.81. Specifically, the RF model is P = 0.95, R = 0.96, ACC = 0.92, AUC = 0.86; the ANN model is P = 0.92, R = 0.95, ACC = 0.88, AUC = 0.81; the SVC model is P = 0.88, R = 0.94, ACC = 0.85, AUC = 0.77. For feature importance analysis, Catheter-to-vein rate (RF: 91.55%, ANN: 82.25%, SVC: 87.71%), Zubrod-ECOG-WHO score (RF: 66.35%, ANN: 82.25%, SVC: 44.35%), and insertion attempt (RF: 44.35%, ANN: 37.65%, SVC: 65.80%) all occupy the top three in the ML models prediction task of PICCs-DVT, showing relatively consistent ranking results. The ML models show good performance in predicting PICCs-DVT and reveal a relatively consistent ranking of feature importance from the data. The important features revealed might help clinical medical staff to better understand and analyze the formation mechanism of PICCs-DVT from a data-driven perspective.

Complications after peripherally inserted central catheter versus central venous catheter implantation in intensive care unit: propensity score analysis using a nationwide database

BACKGROUND

It remains unclear whether peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are superior to central venous catheters (CVCs); therefore, we compared post-implantation complications between CVC and PICC groups.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients who received CVCs or PICCs between April 2010 and March 2018 were identified from the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, a national inpatient database in Japan. The outcomes of interest included catheter infection, pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and phlebitis. Propensity score overlap weighting was used to balance patient backgrounds. Outcomes were compared using logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

We identified 164,185 eligible patients, including 161,605 (98.4%) and 2,580 (1.6%) in the CVC and PICC groups, respectively. The PICC group was more likely to have overall complications (odds ratio [OR], 1.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.32-2.19), pulmonary embolism (OR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.38-3.89), deep vein thrombosis (OR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.16-2.99), and phlebitis (OR, 1.72; 95% CI, 1.27-2.32) than the CVC group. There was no significant intergroup difference in catheter infection (OR, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.39-3.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with PICCs had a significantly greater incidence of complications than did those with CVCs. Further research is necessary to explore the factors contributing to these complications.

Appraising the quality standard of clinical practice guidelines related to central venous catheter-related thrombosis prevention: a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the quality and analyse the content of clinical practice guidelines regarding central venous catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) to provide evidence for formulating an evidence-based practice protocol and a risk assessment scale to prevent it.

DESIGN

Scoring and analysis of the guidelines using the AGREE II and AGREE REX scales.

DATA SOURCES

Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature, and the relevant websites of the guideline, were searched from 1 January 2017 to 26 March 2022.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Guidelines covering CRT treatment, prevention, or management were included from 1 January 2017 to 26 March 2022.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Three independent reviewers systematically trained in using the AGREE II and AGREE REX scales were selected to evaluate these guidelines.

RESULTS

Nine guidelines were included, and the quality grade results showed that three were at A-level and six were at B-level. The included guidelines mainly recommended the prevention measure of central venous CRT from three aspects: risk screening, prevention strategies, and knowledge training, with a total of 22 suggestions being recommended.

CONCLUSION

The overall quality of the guidelines is high, but there are few preventive measures for central venous CRT involved in the guidelines. All preventive measures have yet to be systematically integrated and evaluated, and no risk assessment scale dedicated to this field has been recommended. Therefore, developing an evidence-based practice protocol and a risk assessment scale to prevent it is urgent.

Risk Factors and Predictive Models for Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Unplanned Extubation in Patients With Cancer: Prospective, Machine Learning Study

BACKGROUND

Cancer indeed represents a significant public health challenge, and unplanned extubation of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC-UE) is a critical concern in patient safety. Identifying independent risk factors and implementing high-quality assessment tools for early detection in high-risk populations can play a crucial role in reducing the incidence of PICC-UE among patients with cancer. Precise prevention and treatment strategies are essential to improve patient outcomes and safety in clinical settings.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify the independent risk factors associated with PICC-UE in patients with cancer and to construct a predictive model tailored to this group, offering a theoretical framework for anticipating and preventing PICC-UE in these patients.

METHODS

Prospective data were gathered from January to December 2022, encompassing patients with cancer with PICC at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University. Each patient underwent continuous monitoring until the catheter's removal. The patients were categorized into 2 groups: the UE group (n=3107) and the non-UE group (n=284). Independent risk factors were identified through univariate analysis, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm, and multivariate analysis. Subsequently, the 3391 patients were classified into a train set and a test set in a 7:3 ratio. Utilizing the identified predictors, 3 predictive models were constructed using the logistic regression, support vector machine, and random forest algorithms. The ultimate model was selected based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) synthesis analysis. To further validate the model, we gathered prospective data from 600 patients with cancer at the Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University and Hainan Provincial People's Hospital from June to December 2022. We assessed the model's performance using the area under the curve of the ROC to evaluate differentiation, the calibration curve for calibration capability, and decision curve analysis (DCA) to gauge the model's clinical applicability.

RESULTS

Independent risk factors for PICC-UE in patients with cancer were identified, including impaired physical mobility (odds ratio [OR] 2.775, 95% CI 1.951-3.946), diabetes (OR 1.754, 95% CI 1.134-2.712), surgical history (OR 1.734, 95% CI 1.313-2.290), elevated D-dimer concentration (OR 2.376, 95% CI 1.778-3.176), targeted therapy (OR 1.441, 95% CI 1.104-1.881), surgical treatment (OR 1.543, 95% CI 1.152-2.066), and more than 1 catheter puncture (OR 1.715, 95% CI 1.121-2.624). Protective factors were normal BMI (OR 0.449, 95% CI 0.342-0.590), polyurethane catheter material (OR 0.305, 95% CI 0.228-0.408), and valved catheter (OR 0.639, 95% CI 0.480-0.851). The TOPSIS synthesis analysis results showed that in the train set, the composite index (Ci) values were 0.00 for the logistic model, 0.82 for the support vector machine model, and 0.85 for the random forest model. In the test set, the Ci values were 0.00 for the logistic model, 1.00 for the support vector machine model, and 0.81 for the random forest model. The optimal model, constructed based on the support vector machine, was obtained and validated externally. The ROC curve, calibration curve, and DCA curve demonstrated that the model exhibited excellent accuracy, stability, generalizability, and clinical applicability.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this study identified 10 independent risk factors for PICC-UE in patients with cancer. The predictive model developed using the support vector machine algorithm demonstrated excellent clinical applicability and was validated externally, providing valuable support for the early prediction of PICC-UE in patients with cancer.

Biomarkers Associated with Thrombosis in Patients with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The measurement and identification of plasma biomarkers can support the estimation of risk and diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) associated with the use of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC).

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify the association between the levels of potential biomarkers that reflect the activation of the blood system, long-term vascular complications, inflammatory system, and the occurrence of PICC-related DVT.

METHODS

Seven electronic databases (Embase, Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, Cinahl, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ERIC) were searched to identify literature published until December 2022. Studies were required to report: (I) adult and pediatric patients, outpatient or admitted to clinical, surgical, or ICU with PICC; (II) patients with PICC-related DVT and patients without PICC-related DVT as a comparator; and (III) at least one biomarker available. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the quality of the studies. Study precision was evaluated by using a funnel plot for platelets level. We provided a narrative synthesis and meta-analysis of the findings on the biomarkers' outcomes of the studies. We pooled the results using random effects meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager software v5.4. This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42018108871).

RESULTS

Of the 3564 studies identified (after duplication removal), 28 were included. PICC-related DVT was associated with higher D-dimers (0.37 μg/mL, 95% CI 0.02, 0.72; p = 0.04, I² = 92%; p for heterogeneity < 0.00001) and with higher platelets (8.76 × 10⁹/L, 95% CI 1.62, 15.91; p = 0.02, I² = 41%; p for heterogeneity = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

High levels of D-dimer and platelet were associated with DVT in patients with PICC. However, biomarkers such as APTT, fibrinogen, FDP, glucose, hemoglobin, glycated hemoglobin, INR, prothrombin time, prothrombin fragment 1.2, the thrombin-antithrombin complex, and WBC were not related to the development of DVT associated with PICC.

Clinical factors of PICC-RVT in cancer patients: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

There is a lack of studies that systematically evaluate the clinical factors of PICC-RVT such as treatment, tumor stage, metastasis, and chemotherapy drugs in cancer patients. This study, therefore, aims to evaluate the clinical factors of catheter-related venous thrombosis in cancer patients with indwelling PICC to provide a basis for the clinical prevention and reduction of thrombosis.

METHODS

Relevant studies were retrieved from major databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang Data, and China Biology Medicine disc (CMB)) and searched from their earliest available dates until July 2022. If two or more studies had the same outcome, a meta-analysis using RevMan 5.4.1 was performed. This systematic review was registered at PROSPERO (number CRD42022358426).

RESULTS

A total of 19 articles involving 19,824 patients were included for quantitative analysis. Meta-analysis of these studies indicated that a history of chemotherapy, tumor type, tumor stage, presence or absence of metastasis, and use of fluorouracil, etoposide, platinum drugs, and taxane were all risk factors for PICC catheter thrombosis in cancer patients.

CONCLUSION

In clinical PICC catheter thrombosis prevention, patients with the above characteristics should be watched more closely than other patients, as they have a higher risk for PICC catheter thrombosis. Based on the present evidence at hand, radiotherapy cannot be considered to be related to the formation of PICC-RVT in cancer patients.

Incidence and Predictive Model of Medical Adhesive-Related Skin Injury in Cancer Patients Managed With Central Venous Access Devices: A Retrospective Study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of medical adhesive-related skin injury (MARSI) at the site of central venous access device (CVAD) implantation in patients with cancer, identify risk factors associated with MARSI in patients with cancer, and create a nomogram for predicting risk of MARSI.

DESIGN

Retrospective, single-center study.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING

The sample comprised 1172 consecutive patients who underwent CVAD implantation between February 2018 and February 2019; their mean age was 55.7 years (SD: 13.9). Data were collected at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, located in Xi'an, China.

METHODS

Demographic and pertinent clinical data were collected from patient records. Routine dressing changes were performed every 7 days for peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) or 28 days for ports except in patients with existing skin injuries. Skin injuries related to use of medical adhesives and persisting for more than for 30 minutes were classified MARSI. Data were used to develop a nomogram for predicting MARSI. The accuracy of the nomogram was verified by calculating the concordance index (C-index) and drawing a calibration curve.

RESULTS

Among the 1172 patients, 330 (28.2%) had undergone PICC implantation, and 282 (24.1%) experienced 1 or more MARSIs representing an incidence rate of 1.7 events per 1000 CVAD days. Statistical analysis identified previous MARSI history, the need for total parenteral nutrition support, other catheter-related complications, a history of allergy, and PICC implantation as associated with a higher likelihood of developing for MARSI. Based on these factors, we established a nomogram for predicting the risk of developing MARSI in patients with cancer who underwent CVAD implantation. The C-index of the nomogram was 0.96, and the calibration curve of the nomogram showed that the predictive ability of the nomogram was strong.

CONCLUSIONS

We evaluated patients with cancer who were undergoing CVAD and identified that previous MARSI history, patients needing total parenteral nutrition support, other catheter-related complications, allergic history, and PICC implantation (compared with ports) were associated with a higher likelihood for developing MARSI. The nomogram we developed showed a good ability for predicting the risk of developing MARSI and may assist nurses to predict MARSI in this population.

Conditional catheter-related thrombosis free probability and risk-adapted choices of catheter for lung cancer

Background

Current predictive tools assess catheter‐related thrombosis (CRT) in patients with lung cancer in a static manner at a single time point of catheterization. The subsequent hazard changes over time are unknown. The conditional catheter‐related thrombosis‐free probability (CCFP) can provide dynamic information on continual CRT‐free expectations. This study aimed to assess the CCFP and hazard rates based on risk categories and various venous access devices (VADs).

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed 939 patients with lung cancer with peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) or central venous catheters (CVCs) identified at the National Clinical Research Center for Cancer between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018. The incidence of CRT has also been reported. Patients were stratified into low‐ and high‐risk groups according to multivariate Cox regression analyses. CCFP is defined as the CRT‐free probability given that patients have no CRT for a definite time.

Results

A total of 507 patients with PICCs and 432 patients with CVCs were included in this study. The 3‐month CCFP increased from 74.2% at catheter insertion to 93.6% at 3 months. The hazards of CRT in the first month were highest (16.4%) and slightly thereafter. The high‐risk group initially had a higher (21.4%) but significantly decreased CRT hazard after 2 months (8.3%), whereas the low‐risk group maintained a comparable lower risk hazard of less than 5% after 1 month. In the overall cohort, patients with CVCs had lower CRT probability than those with PICCs (HR, 1.76; 95% CI: 1.28–2.41; p < 0.01). Further analysis demonstrated that compared with PICCs, CVCs provided a CRT‐free benefit in low‐risk patients (p = 0.02) but not in high‐risk patients (p = 0.06).

Conclusions

CCFP increased, and the hazards of CRT decreased over time in a risk‐dependent manner in patients with lung cancer. These valuable dynamic data may help optimize risk‐adjusted choices of VADs and risk‐adjusted prophylactic anticoagulation strategies for patients.

A model to assess the risk of peripherally inserted central venous catheter-related thrombosis in patients with breast cancer: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Limited risk assessment tool to stratify the risk of PICC-related thrombosis (PICC-RVT) in breast cancer patients. This study developed a model to assess the risk of PICC-RVT in breast cancer patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 1284 breast cancer patients receiving PICC insertion from January 1, 2015, to August 31, 2019, at a cancer specialized hospital in Hunan province, China. The entire population was divided into two groups at a ratio of 3:1 which included a derivation sample (n = 978), and a validation sample (n = 284). PICC-RVT was confirmed by ultrasonography in the presence of clinical symptoms and signs.

RESULTS

PICC-RVT occurred in 40 (4.09%) of the derivation sample patients. Multivariable analysis identified 9 variables: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, prior central venous catheter placement, higher level of platelets, higher level of D-dimer, lower level of activated partial thromboplastin time, menopause, no prior breast surgery, upper extremity lymphedema, and endocrine therapy. Points were assigned to each variable according to regression coefficient. The model had an area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) of 0.850 (95% CI 0.776 to 0.924), The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit was 5.780 (p = 0.328). At a cutoff value of 3.5, the sensitivity and specificity were 75% and 83%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Several disease-specific factors of breast cancer (e.g., menopause, endocrine therapy, and upper extremity lymphedema) play important roles in the development of PICC-RVT. Patients at higher PICC-RVT risk could be candidates for close post-insertion monitoring and interventions to prevent PICC-RVT.

Catheter-related bloodstream infection associated with multiple insertions of the peripherally inserted central catheter in patients with hematological disorders

Patients with hematological disorders are treated with multiple cycles of chemotherapy. As a result, they often require multiple insertions of the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for prolonged periods of time. Although PICCs have been widely used worldwide in various patients, the safety and feasibility of the multiple insertions of the PICC in this population have not been fully verified. We performed a retrospective analysis to clarify the relationship between complications and multiple PICC insertions in patients with hematological disorders who were treated with either chemotherapy or immunotherapy. A total of 651 PICCs were inserted in 261 patients with a median age of 66 years. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were the most common diseases in our patient cohort. The total catheter days (CDs) was 29,485 days, with a median catheter duration of 30 days. The rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in our patient cohort at high rate of re-insertion was 2.0/1000 CDs. Although multiple PICC insertions were not a risk factor of CRBSI, our findings suggest that a prolonged catheter dwell time may be associated with CRBSI. AML was an important risk factor of CRBSI. While the PICC dwell time depends on the treatment cycle, our findings indicate that it should be limited to approximately 30 days and catheters may be removed and re-inserted as needed.

Upper Extremity Deep Vein Thrombosis: Current Knowledge and Future Directions

Upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT) has been increasing in incidence due to the escalating use of central venous catheters such as peripherally inserted central catheters. UEDVT can be primary idiopathic or secondary to pacemaker leads, intravascular catheters or cancer. In comparison to conventional venous thromboembolism such as lower limb deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism the risk factors, investigations, and management are not well defined. We review current evidence in primary and secondary UEDVT, highlighting areas in need of further research. We also explore the entity of venous thoracic outlet syndrome, which is said to be a risk factor for recurrent primary UEDVT and is the rationale behind surgical interventions.

Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 gene promoter 4G/5G polymorphism and risks of peripherally inserted central catheter-related venous thrombosis in patients with lung cancer: a prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

This study investigated the influence of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) gene polymorphisms and other contributing clinical factors on peripherally inserted central catheter-related venous thrombosis (PICC-RVT) in Chinese patients with lung cancer.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study of 237 participants. Blood samples were collected to detect the PAI-1 4G/5G genotype. Venous thromboembolism risk was calculated by the Caprini risk assessment model. Color Doppler ultrasonography was performed every 7 days for 3 weeks to confirm PICC-RVT.

RESULTS

The rate of PICC-RVT was 13.50% (32/237). The 5G/5G, 4G/5G, and 4G/4G genotypes were found in 12.50% vs 17.56%, 59.38% vs 49.27%, and 28.12% vs 34.17% in the thrombus group and the non-thrombus group of the participants. No difference was observed in the distribution frequency of the three genotypes between the thrombus and non-thrombus groups. A higher fibrinogen level (OR 1.194, 95% CI 1.004-1.420, P = 0.045) and a higher Caprini score (OR 1.698, 95% CI 1.103-2.614, P = 0.016) were statistically significant risk factors for PICC-RVT. Compared with patients who underwent a pemetrexed/cisplatin regimen, those who were administered paclitaxel/cisplatin (OR 18.332, 95% CI 2.890-116.278, P = 0.002) or gemcitabine/cisplatin (OR 6.617, 95% CI 1.210-36.180, P = 0.029) were at increased risk of PICC-RVT.

CONCLUSION

Our finding suggested that there is no statistically significant influence of the PAI-1 4G/5G gene variant on PICC-RVT in Chinese patients with lung cancer. However, patients with higher Caprini scores and higher fibrinogen levels are at increased risk for PICC-RVT, as are patients receiving chemotherapy. Clinical staff should carefully perform a risk assessment for patients with PICC. Those with the above risk factors should pay close attention and take timely and effective preventive measures.

The Caprini thrombosis risk model predicts the risk of peripherally inserted central catheter-related upper extremity venous thrombosis in patients with cancer

BACKGROUND

A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is often necessary for patients receiving chemotherapy, but there is a risk of PICC-related venous thrombosis (VT). We sought to use the Caprini thrombosis risk model and color Doppler flow imaging for the dynamic monitoring of an eventual thrombosis in patients receiving chemotherapy.

METHODS

This prospective study was carried out from January 2018 to May 2019 in patients who underwent PICC implantation and maintenance at the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University. The outcome event was the occurrence of PICC-related upper extremity venous thrombosis confirmed by color Doppler flow imaging.

RESULTS

A total of 201 participants were enrolled, of whom 108 (53.7%) developed VT. Three participants (1.5%) developed symptomatic VT. Univariable logistic regression analysis suggested that the Caprini score (odds ratio [OR], 1.243; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.074-1.438; P = .003), the PICC model (OR, 0.448; 95% CI, 0.223-0.901; P = .024), and a previous history of PICC-related deep vein thrombosis (OR, 9.388; 95% CI, 1.178-74.786; P = .034) were associated with PICC-related upper extremity VT. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that only the Caprini score (OR, 1.188; 95% CI, 1.018-1.386; P = .029) was an independent risk factor for PICC-related venous thrombus. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed the Caprini risk assessment model had a predictive value for upper extremity VT, with an area under the curve of 0.615 (95% CI, 0.538-0.693), 74.1% sensitivity, and 44.1% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

The Caprini score is an independent predictor of the development of PICC-related VT in patients with cancer. However, the moderate sensitivity and low specificity of the Caprini risk assessment model may limit its predictive value in the clinical setting.

Incidence and risk factors of symptomatic thrombosis related to peripherally inserted central catheter in patients with lung cancer

AIMS

To determine the incidence and risk factors associated with peripherally inserted central catheter-related thrombosis (PICC-RT) in patients with lung cancer.

DESIGN

A retrospective cross-sectional design.

METHODS

Patients with lung cancer receiving PICC insertion during 1 March 2014-31 May 2019 at a tertiary hospital in Shanghai, China were enrolled (N = 748). Symptomatic PICC-RT was confirmed by Doppler ultrasonography in the presence of clinical symptoms and signs. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors of symptomatic PICC-RT.

RESULTS

Among the patients (mean age, 60.7 years; males, 67.1%), 55 (7.35%) had symptomatic PICC-RT. Based on the multivariate analysis, history of smoking [OR 2.49 (1.13-5.46), p < .05], use of Carboplatin [OR 2.23 (1.19-4.17), p < .05] or Docetaxel [OR 7.23 (1.65-31.56), p < .05], PICC size [OR 3.52 (1.78-6.99), p < .001], and level of D-dimer [OR 5.32 (2.39-11.83), p < .001] were significant risk factors of PICC-RT.

CONCLUSION

Several modifiable factors (e.g., PICC size and level of D-dimer) were related to PICC-RT. In the future, prospective studies are warranted to examine whether those factors could increase the risk of PICC-RT. Meanwhile, healthcare professionals are recommended to perform a comprehensive assessment of the patients receiving PICC insertion. Close attention should be paid to those at risk for PICC-RT.

IMPACT

Identification of risk factors associated with PICC-RT is an important step towards individualizing the care plan for patients receiving PICC. Our findings provided evidence for the management of PICC-RT in patients with lung cancer. In clinical practice, nurses could deliver appropriate interventions against modifiable risk factors to reduce the risk of PICC-RT.

Development and Validation of a New Clinical Prediction Model of Catheter-Related Thrombosis Based on Vascular Ultrasound Diagnosis in Cancer Patients

Background: Central venous catheters are convenient for drug delivery and improved comfort for cancer patients, but they also cause serious complications. The most common complication is catheter-related thrombosis (CRT). Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for CRT in cancer patients and develop an effective prediction model for CRT in cancer patients. Methods: The development of our prediction model was based on a retrospective cohort (n = 3,131) from the National Cancer Center. Our prediction model was confirmed in a prospective cohort from the National Cancer Center (n = 685) and a retrospective cohort from the Hunan Cancer Hospital (n = 61). The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration plots. Results: Multivariate analysis demonstrated that sex, cancer type, catheter type, position of the catheter tip, chemotherapy status, and antiplatelet/anticoagulation status at baseline were independent risk factors for CRT. The area under the ROC curve of our prediction model was 0.741 (CI: 0.715-0.766) in the primary cohort and 0.754 (CI: 0.704-0.803) and 0.658 (CI: 0.470-0.845) in validation cohorts 1 and 2, respectively. The model also showed good calibration and clinical impact in the primary and validation cohorts. Conclusions: Our model is a novel prediction tool for CRT risk that accurately assigns cancer patients into high- and low-risk groups. Our model will be valuable for clinicians when making decisions regarding thromboprophylaxis.

Feasibility analysis of external application of Xiao-Shuan-San in preventing PICC-related thrombosis

PURPOSE

We aim to analyze the feasibility of external application of Xiao-Shuan-Santo prevent peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) -related thrombosis.

METHODS

A total of 218 patients with PICC catheterization were randomly divided into a control group (n = 103) and a treatment group (n = 115). Patients in the treatment group received additional external application of Xiao-Shuan-San. The changes of coagulation index, the incidence of PICC-related thrombosis and other complications, and the maximum blood flow rate (Vmax) of axillary vein were observed at 1 day before catheterization and 30 days after PICC.

RESULTS

At 30 days after PICC, the incidence of PICC-related thrombosis and other adverse events in the treatment group were obviously lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05), and the decreased Vmax value of axillary vein in the control group (11.75±1.91 cm/s) was more visible than that in the treatment group (14.63±3.03 cm/s), accompanied by a statistical significance (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

External application of Xiao-Shuan-San could reduce the incidence of PICC-related thrombosis and other complications.

Nomogram-based prediction of pre-eclampsia in the first trimester of gestation

OBJECTIVES

Pre-eclampsia is a specific disease during gestation without a clear etiology. The lack of effective forecasting and prevention methods threatens the safety of maternal and infant lives.

STUDY DESIGN

We prospectively evaluated 356 pregnancies in their first trimester at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University and followed up the whole gestation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Pre-eclampsia correlation parameters were subjected to dimensionality reduction analysis using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method.

RESULTS

Of the 356 pregnancies, 25 developed pre-eclampsia during late gestation. Sonographic parameters of the placenta, uterine artery, and umbilical artery were calculated using LASSO regression analysis. Five factors (vascularization and blood flow index of the placenta, peak systolic velocity and peak systolic to end-diastolic artery ratio of the left uterine artery, and pulse index of the umbilical artery) were applied in a final nomogram model. The fitting curve was closely correlated with the actual situation, with a C-index of 0.877.

CONCLUSIONS

The nomogram described here could be used to predict the risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women and provide strong support for early intervention.