Catheter Malfunction Research Articles

Presentation, clinical behavior, outcomes and therapies for patients with advanced pancreas adenocarcinoma (PAC) who present with or develop ascites.

209 Background: Ascites develops in a subset of patients with PAC at presentation or as the disease advances. Limited data exist on the prognostic importance of malignant ascites in PAC. Our hypothesis is that this information will provide an understanding of the natural history and facilitate management decisions. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of N = 180 patients treated at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center diagnosed between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2014, with PAC and ascites either at presentation or which developed during the disease course. Results: For the 180 patients, overall survival was 15 months. Time from diagnosis to ascites presentation was 11 months and survival time after ascites development was 4 months. Of 62 patients (34%) who had ascitic fluid analyzed, N = 36 (58%) had positive cytology, N = 51 (82%) patients had a serum ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) ≥ 1 and N = 11 (18%) had SAAG < 1.1. Sixty-four (36%) of patients had their ascites managed solely by serial paracenteses. A total of 116 patients required a catheter, from these, N = 108 (93%) had a Tenckhoff catheter, N = 4 (3%) Pleurx catheter, N = 3 (2%) Pigtail catheter and one (1%) a Denver catheter. Eight (4%) patients required two catheters to be placed and N = 6 (3%) Tenckhoff catheters had to be removed. Main observed complications: spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in N = 7 (11%) of patients managed with paracenteses vs. N = 34 (19%) who had a catheter placed, catheter malfunction in N = 8 (4%), acute renal failure in N = 6 (3%). After ascites development N = 79 (44%) of patients received active therapy and N = 101 (56%) patients were managed with supportive care alone. Conclusions: In patients with PAC the presence of ascites is a poor prognostic factor. Serial paracenteses and indwelling catheters are common methods used for alleviating patients’ discomfort. The complication rate was higher with indwelling catheters, primarily associated with infections (e.g. bacterial peritonitis) with low rates of complications occurring related to catheter malfunction, acute renal failure or bowel perforation.

Treatment of tunneled dialysis catheter malfunction: revision versus exchange.

Exchange procedures involve tunneled dialysis catheter (TDC) removal and exchange over a wire, using the same exit site and venotomy site. Diagnostic imaging or intervention was generally not performed in exchange procedures. Revision procedures involve placement of new TDC using the previous venotomy site and a new tunnel and exit site. The majority of revisions usually include diagnostic imaging and intervention in the central circulation if needed. A retrospective single review of 70 patients who underwent 97 TDC replacements from 2010 to early 2012 because of catheter malfunction was evaluated for either infection or malfunction within 30 days of the procedure. There were 41 exchanges and 56 revisions out of the 97 procedures performed. There were eight infections (documented by positive blood culture) in the exchanges (19.5%) and one in the revision group (1.8%). The need for an additional procedure due to malfunction was 10 in the exchange (24.4%) and 10 (17.8%) in the revision group. Revision is a clearly superior procedure with regard to infection and more data need to be gathered as to whether it will decrease repeat procedures.

Swan-neck versus straight peritoneal dialysis catheter: Long-term effect on patient and method survival.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is limited mainly by a higher technique failure rate as compared to hemodialysis (HD), catheter malfunction being an important reason. Intra- and extra-peritoneal catheter configuration may be associated with mechanical and infectious complications affecting method survival. We report our experience with two extra-peritoneal catheter configurations: the straight and the swan-neck (SN) catheters. A total of 85 consecutive patients, 58 males and 27 females were included in the study. Among them, 26 were diabetics; 52 were treated with automated PD (APD) and 33 with continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD). Straight catheters were used in 38 patients (straight group) and SN catheters in 47 patients (SN group). Straight catheters were mostly used in the first 6-year period while SN catheters in the last 6-year period. The baseline demographics were similar between the two groups. A significantly higher frequency of APD use was observed in SN group. Technique survival was better with SN versus straight (log-rank test, P = 0.01) while patient and catheter survival were similar. A better technique survival is noted in our group of patients with SN catheters. An additional factor could be the significantly higher frequency of APD use in this group. Changes in PD solutions’ composition could also contribute to improvement in technique survival. The outcome for patients and catheter types used was similar.

The impact of interventional nephrologists on the growth of a peritoneal dialysis program: Long-term, single-center experience

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an underutilized form of renal replacement therapy. Although a variety of factors have been deemed responsible, timely insertion of a PD catheter may also be a contributory factor. Furthermore, a good catheter implantation technique is important to allow for effective peritoneal access function and long-term technique survival. Studies regarding results obtained by nephrologists in comparison with surgeons have been limited to small single-center experiences. Thus, the objective of this study was to explore the impact of the peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion by nephrologists compared to surgeons on early catheter complications and on technique survival. We also examine whether PD catheter insertion by nephrologists has a positive impact on the growth in the number of patients using PD. We performed 313 consecutive procedures: 192 catheter insertions and 121 catheter removal from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2013. The main reasons for catheter removal were: renal transplantation, 52 (43%) follow of transfer to HD, 48 (40%) and catheter malfunction, 16 (13%). The patients were mostly male (63.4%) with the mean age of 50.8±15.1 years and 23.8 were diabetics. We only observed seven (2.5%) early complications (<4 weeks) associated to peritoneal catheter surgery (3 peritonitis episodes, 2 hemoperitoneum episodes, one complicated hernia and one omental entrapment). There were not significant differences in surgery-related complications in both periods. The penetration ratio of PD after 2006 was 117% higher compared with procedures performing before this date. In conclusions, we have demonstrated a positive impact on the growth of the PD population when catheter insertion is performed by nephrologists with a minimal incidence of complications associated.

End-stage renal disease and thrombophilia.

Chronic kidney disease is an established risk factor for arterial and venous thromboembolism (TE). Whereas the overall risk of TE in moderately decreased kidney function is approximately 2.5-fold higher compared to patients with normal renal function, the risk increase is 5.5-fold in patients with severe renal dysfunction. In patients with renal dysfunction and arterial thrombosis (OR: 4.9), malignancy (OR: 5.8) surgery (OR: 14.0) or thrombophilia (OR: 4.3) the risk to suffer from venous TE is higher compared to the risk associated to the baseline renal dysfunction alone. The treatment options for end-stage renal diseases include hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and kidney transplantation. During all treatment modalities thrombotic complications have been described, namely catheter malfunction and shunt thrombosis in patients undergoing hemodialysis in up to 25% of patients, and TE, pulmonary embolism or graft vessel thrombosis in approximately 8% of patients. The reported incidence of reno-vascular thrombosis following renal transplantation leading to hemorrhagic infarction with organ rejection or organ loss varied between 2-12%. Keeping in mind the multifactorial etiology of TE in patients with kidney dysfunction a general screening for thrombophilia in this patient group is not indicated. Selected screening on an individual patient basis should be discussed if the family history for TE is positive or the patient itself had suffered one thrombosis before the onset of the renal disease or multiple TEs during hemodialysis or post kidney transplantation in patients waiting for living donor kidney transplantation.

A study of outcome and complications associated with temporary hemodialysis catheters in a Nigerian dialysis unit

Hemodialysis (HD) catheters are commonly used as temporary vascular access in patients with kidney failure who require immediate HD. The use of these catheters is limited by complications such as infections, thrombosis resulting in poor blood flow. We studied the complications and outcomes of nontunneled catheters used for vascular access in our dialysis unit. The records of all patients, with renal failure who were dialyzed over a two-year period and had a double lumen nontunneled catheter inserted, were retrieved. Catheter insertion was carried out under ultrasound guidance using the modified Seldinger technique. The demographic data of patients, etiology of chronic kidney disease, and complications and outcomes of these catheters were noted. Fifty-four patients with mean age 43.7 ± 15.8 years had 69 catheters inserted for a cumulative total of 4047 catheter-days. The mean catheter patency was 36.4 ± 37.2 days (range: 1-173 days). Thrombosis occluding the catheters was the most common complication and occurred in 58% of catheters leading to catheter malfunction, followed by infections in18.8% of catheters. During follow-up, 30 (43.5%) catheters were removed, 14 (20.3%) due to catheter malfunction, eight (11.6%) due to infection, five (7.2%) elective removal, and three (4.3%) due to damage. Thrombotic occlusion of catheters was a major limiting factor to the survival of HD catheters. Improvement in catheter patency can be achieved with more potent lock solutions.

Taurolock Effectively Reduces Tunneled Dialysis Catheter-Related Infection and Catheter Exchange Rates among Hemodialysis Patients

Aims: Catheter-related infection, which is one of the major side effects of the use of dialysis catheters, leads to increases in hospitalization, morbidity and mortality. Antibiotic lock is an option for reducing the incidence of these infections, but there are concerns regarding antibiotic resistance. A prior study demonstrated that Taurolock (a taurolidine lock) may reduce the rate of catheter-related infection. Methods and Material: This investigation was a prospective before-and-after study. During period one, patients continued to use a heparin lock (5000 units/ml) for 6 months. During period two, they were shifted to Taurolock (a solution of 1.35% taurolidine, 4% citrate, and 500 units/ml of heparin) for 6 months. The primary outcome was the incidence of tunneled catheter-related infection and/or catheter exchange, and the secondary outcomes were the effects of Taurolock on catheter flow rate, dialysis adequacy, and catheter malfunction rate. Results: A total of 49 patients were included in this study. During period one, the primary outcome occurred 17 times, with an incidence rate of 86.8 per 100 patient-years; during period two, the primary outcome occurred 7 times, with an incidence rate of 32.6 per 100 patient-years (incidence rate ratio: 2.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05 - 7.6, P = 0.023). There was no significant difference between the two periods with respect to mean catheter blood flow rate (P = 0.29). During period one, thrombolytic therapy (TPA) lock was indicated on 19 occasions, with an incidence rate of 97 per 100 patient-years; during period two, TPA lock was indicated on 53 occasions, with an incidence rate of 247.5 per 100 patient-years (incidence rate ratio: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.21 - 0.67, P = 0.0003). Conclusions: We demonstrated that Taurolock usage is safe and effective for the prevention of dialysis catheter-related infection and/or catheter exchange.

A Quality Improvement Initiative to Reduce Catheter Exchange Rates for Fluoroscopically Guided Gastrostomy Tubes

PurposeTo evaluate the effectiveness of a data-driven quality improvement initiative to reduce catheter exchange rates. Materials and MethodsA single-institution retrospective analysis of all percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy (PRG) placement and replacement procedures between January 2010 and July 2015 was conducted. A statistical model predicting the risk for catheter exchange for any reason and exchanges specifically for tube malfunction was created; a quality improvement plan to reduce catheter exchanges was designed and implemented in June 2014. The outcomes for subsequent PRG procedures from July 2014 through March 2015 were followed until July 2015. ResultsBetween 2010 and June 2014, 1,144 primary PRG procedures and 442 replacement procedures were performed in 1,112 patients. Of the 442 exchange procedures, 289 were “rescue” procedures secondary to catheter malfunction. A quality improvement plan was implemented in June 2014 that encouraged primary gastrojejunostomy catheter and balloon-retained PRG catheter placement and placement of skin sutures in patients considered high risk for catheter dislodgment. From July 2014 through March 2015, 229 PRG catheters were placed, and 71 exchange procedures were performed through July 2015. There was a statistically significant decrease in the number of rescue exchanges performed secondary to catheter malfunction (P = .036). ConclusionsProcedural and patient-specific risk factors for PRG complications were identified, and a statistical model to predict rates of minor complications was created. These findings were used to implement a quality improvement program that resulted in a decrease in PRG exchanges secondary to catheter malfunction.

Safety and Complications of Double-Lumen Tunnelled Cuffed Central Venous Dialysis Catheters: Clinical and radiological perspective from a tertiary centre in Oman.

This study aimed to assess the technical success, safety and immediate and delayed complications of double-lumen tunnelled cuffed central venous catheters (TVCs) at the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), Muscat, Oman. This retrospective study took place between January 2012 and October 2013. The clinical records and radiological data of all patients who underwent ultrasound- and fluoroscopy-guided TVC placement at SQUH during the study period were reviewed. Demographic data and information regarding catheter placement, technical success and peri- and post-procedure complications (such as catheter-related infections or thrombosis) were collected. A total of 204 TVCs were placed in 161 patients. Of these, 68 were female (42.2%) and 93 were male (57.8%). The mean age of the patients was 54.4 ± 17.3 years. The most common reason for catheter placement was the initiation of dialysis (63.4%). A total of 203 procedures were technically successful (99.5%). The right internal jugular vein was the most common site of catheter placement (74.9%). Mild haemorrhage which resolved spontaneously occurred in 11 cases (5.4%). No other complications were observed. Subsequent follow-up data was available for 132 catheters (65.0%); of these, thrombosis-related catheter malfunction was observed in 22 cases (16.7%) and catheter-related infection in 29 cases (22.0%). Radiological-guided placement of tunnelled haemodialysis catheters can be performed safely with excellent technical success. The success rate of catheter insertion at SQUH was favourable in comparison with other studies reported in the literature.

Long-term follow-up for lumbar intrathecal baclofen catheters placed using the paraspinal subfascial technique.

OBJECT Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) is a valuable therapeutic option for patients with spasticity and dystonia. The techniques that place an ITB pump catheter into the subcutaneous fat of a lumbar incision are well described. Because patients who require ITB often have low body fat content, they may be predisposed to catheter-related complications. The senior author used a novel technique to place the catheter in a paraspinal subfascial fashion, and the short-term results were previously published. That study demonstrated no development of hardware erosions, catheter migrations, or CSF leaks within an average follow-up of 5 months. This study followed up on those initial findings by looking at the long-term outcomes since this technique was introduced. METHODS Using the institutional review board-approved protocol, the electronic medical records were reviewed retrospectively for all patients who underwent paraspinal subfascial catheter placement by the senior author. Patients received follow-up with the surgeon at 2 weeks postoperatively and were followed routinely by their physiatrist thereafter. RESULTS Of the 43 patients identified as having undergone surgery by the senior author using the paraspinal subfascial technique between July 2010 and February 2014, 12 patients (27.9%) required reoperation. There were 5 patients (11.6%) who had complications related to the catheter or lumbar incision. No hardware erosions or CSF leaks were identified. These patients received a median follow-up of 3.0 years, with 30 of 43 patients receiving follow-up over 2.0 years. CONCLUSION This follow-up study suggests that the technique of paraspinal subfascial catheter placement translates to long-term decreases in CSF leakage and complications from erosion, infection, and also catheter malfunctions. It does not seem to affect the overall rate of complications.

Vertical Tunnel-based Low-site Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Implantation Decreases the Incidence of Catheter Malfunction

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is often complicated by catheter dysfunction. We designed a PD catheter implantation technique to reduce catheter dysfunction. Between June 2008 and 2012, 89 patients with end-stage renal disease were enrolled into a prospective study and randomly assigned to receive traditional catheter implantation by open surgery (n = 41) or vertical tunnel-based low-site PD catheter implantation (n = 48). Both procedures used Baxter straight double-cuffed Tenckhoff catheters. The novel implantation technique involves a low-site (7 cm above the midpoint of the pubic symphysis), individually tailored intra-abdominal segment, and increased vertical subcutaneous tunnel. Patients were followed for 1-year after procedure. The vertical tunnel-based low-site method implanted catheters were 3.7 ± 0.9 cm long, with an 11.3 ± 0.9 cm intra-abdominal segment. The incidence of postoperative bleeding, PD fluid leakage, outer cuff extrusion, inflow or outflow pain, peritonitis, tunnel inflammation, or exit-site infection did not differ significantly between the two surgical techniques; however, the incidence of catheter displacement and noncatheter displacement malfunctions after the novel technique (4.2%) was significantly lower than that in traditional open surgery (19.5%, P < 0.05). In conclusions, vertical tunnel-based low-site PD catheter implantation can significantly reduce the occurrence of PD catheter malfunction, particularly catheter displacement.

The impact of interventional nephrologists on the growth of a peritoneal dialysis program: Long-term, single-center experience

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an underutilized form of renal replacement therapy. Although a variety of factors have been deemed responsible, timely insertion of a PD catheter may also be a contributory factor. Furthermore, a good catheter implantation technique is important to allow for effective peritoneal access function and long-term technique survival. Studies regarding results obtained by nephrologists in comparison with surgeons have been limited to small single-center experiences. Thus, the objective of this study was to explore the impact of the peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion by nephrologists compared to surgeons on early catheter complications and on technique survival. We also examine whether PD catheter insertion by nephrologists has a positive impact on the growth in the number of patients using PD. We performed 313 consecutive procedures: 192 catheter insertions and 121 catheter removal from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2013. The main reasons for catheter removal were: renal transplantation, 52 (43%) follow of transfer to HD, 48 (40%) and catheter malfunction, 16 (13%). The patients were mostly male (63.4%) with the mean age of 50.8±15.1 years and 23.8 were diabetics. We only observed seven (2.5%) early complications (<4 weeks) associated to peritoneal catheter surgery (3 peritonitis episodes, 2 hemoperitoneum episodes, one complicated hernia and one omental entrapment). There were not significant differences in surgery-related complications in both periods. The penetration ratio of PD after 2006 was 117% higher compared with procedures performing before this date. In conclusions, we have demonstrated a positive impact on the growth of the PD population when catheter insertion is performed by nephrologists with a minimal incidence of complications associated.

Proximal ventricular shunt malfunctions in children: Factors associated with failure

Ventricular shunt failures and subsequent revisions are a significant source of patient morbidity. We conducted a review of pediatric patients undergoing placement or revision of ventricular shunts at our institution between January 2007 and December 2008. Patients were followed through to July 2014. Data collected included patient demographics, shunt history and indication for procedure, approach taken for shunt placement, and location of shunt tip in relation to the foramen of Monro. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with proximal failure. A total of 87 procedures were identified in 40 patients, consisting of 23 initial placements and 64 revisions. Thirty-nine proximal catheter malfunctions were identified. Indications for shunt placement included Chiari II malformation (33%) and intraventricular hemorrhage (33%). Mean follow-up period was 5.5years. Median time to shunt failure was 1.57years. In the multivariate model, younger age at placement was associated with decreased time to proximal failure (hazard ratio [HR]=0.80 per increasing year of age, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64–0.98). Both anterior approach (HR=0.39, 95% CI 0.23–0.67) and farther distance to foramen of Monro (HR=0.02 per increasing 10mm, 95% CI 0.00–0.22) were associated with increased time to proximal failure when the catheter tip was located within the contralateral lateral ventricle. Optimizing outcomes in patients with shunt-dependent hydrocephalus continues to be a challenge. Despite unsatisfactory outcomes, particularly in the pediatric population, few conclusions can be drawn from studies assessing operative variables.

Peripheral nerve catheters in children: an analysis of safety and practice patterns from the pediatric regional anesthesia network (PRAN)

Peripheral nerve catheters (PNCs) are used with increasing frequency in children. Although adult studies have demonstrated safety with this technique, there have been few safety studies in children. The main objective of the current investigation was to examine the incidence of PNC complications in children undergoing surgery. This is an observational, multi-institutional study using the Pediatric Regional Anesthesia Network (PRAN) database. Data pertaining to PNCs were entered prospectively into a secure, online database by each participating centre. Patient characteristics, anatomic location, localization techniques, medications used, and complications were recorded for each catheter. All complications and any sequelae were followed until resolution. There were 2074 PNCs included in the study. 251 adverse events and complications were recorded, resulting in an overall incidence (95% CI) of complications of 12.1% (10.7-13.5%). The most common complications were catheter malfunction, block failure, infection, and vascular puncture. There were no reports of persistent neurologic problems, serious infection, or local anaesthetic systemic toxicity, resulting in an estimated incidence (95% CI) of 0.04% (0.001-0.2%). Patients who developed an infection had used the catheters for a greater number of days, median (IQR) of 4.5 (3-7) days compared with 3 (1-3) days in the patients who did not develop an infection, P<0.0001. Our data support the safety of placing PNCs in children, with adverse event rates similar to adult studies. Catheter problems are common, yet minor, in severity.

Shunt revision requirements after posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus of prematurity: insight into the time course of shunt dependency.

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a common affliction of preterm infants and often results in posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH). These patients typically eventually require permanent CSF diversion and are presumed to be indefinitely shunt-dependent. To date, however, there has been no study of long-term shunt revision requirements in patients with PHH. We analyzed retrospectively collected data for 89 preterm patients diagnosed with grades III and IV IVH and PHH at our institution from 1998 to 2011. Sixty-nine out of 89 patients (77.5%) underwent ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement, and 33 (47.8%) required at least one shunt revision and 18 (26.1%) required multiple revisions. The mean ± standard deviation follow-up time for shunted patients was 5.0 ± 3.3 years. The majority of early failures were due to proximal catheter malfunction, while later failures were mostly due to distal catheter problems. There was a significant difference in the number of patients requiring revisions in the first 3 years following initial VP shunt insertion compared after 3 years, with 28 revisions versus 10 (p < 0.004). In 8 out of 10 patients who underwent shunt revisions after 3 years, evidence of obstructive hydrocephalus was found on imaging either in the form of an isolated fourth ventricular cyst or aqueductal stenosis. Our results suggest that in a distinct subset of patients with PHH, obstructive hydrocephalus may develop, resulting in long-term dependence on CSF diversion. Further study on the factors associated with long-term shunt dependence and revision requirements within the PHH group is warranted.

Malfunction of Peritoneal Catheters by Proliferation of Vascularized Fibrous Tissue.

Malfunction of Peritoneal Catheters by Proliferation of Vascularized Fibrous Tissue.

Laparoscopic-assisted Peritoneal Shunt Insertion for Ventriculoperitoneal and Lumboperitoneal Shunt Placement: An Institutional Experience of 53 Consecutive Cases.

The purpose of this study was to describe operative times, complication rates, and outcomes following laparoscopic placement of the peritoneal catheter in ventriculoperitoneal (VP) and lumboperitoneal (LP) shunt insertion. A retrospective review was performed of those who underwent laparoscopic-assisted VP or LP shunt insertion from July 2007 to August 2011. The study included 53 consecutive patients (35 women and 18 men). Mean age was 51 years (range, 16 to 83 y), mean BMI was 27.6 (range, 16 to 54), and 35.8% of the patients had previous abdominal surgery. Mean operative time for VP shunt placement was 68.2 ± 19.0 minutes, and for LP shunt placement 84 ± 12.4 minutes. There were no intraoperative complications, and conversion to minilaparotomy was 0%. There were 2 distal catheter-associated complications. Laparoscopic-assisted VP/LP shunt placement is associated with a low incidence of distal catheter malfunction. Direct visualization of shunt placement into the peritoneal cavity is a major advantage making it a viable alternative over traditional techniques.

Real-time, ultrasound-guided infraclavicular axillary vein cannulation for renal replacement therapy in the critical care unit—A prospective intervention study

PurposeThe cannulation of the axillary vein for renal replacement therapy is a rarely performed procedure in the critical care unit. We defined the venipuncture and catheterization success rates and early mechanical complication rates of this technique in critical care patients with acute kidney injury. Materials and methodsTwenty-nine mechanically ventilated patients with clinical indications for insertion of temporary hemodialysis catheters enrolled in a registered trial (NCT01919528) as a pilot cohort. We performed 29 real-time, ultrasound-guided infraclavicular axillary vein cannulation attempts for renal replacement therapy. We defined the venipuncture and catheterization success rates and early mechanical complication rates for this technique. ResultsThe puncture of the axillary vein was successful in 28 (96.5%) patients. In 22 patients (75.9%), venipuncture occurred during the first attempt and in 6 patients during the second (20.7%). The overall cannulation success rate was 93.1% (95% confidence interval, 77%–99%). We noted 6.8% potentially serious complications rate, 10.3% minor complications rate, and 0% life-threatening early mechanical complications. We achieved an 89.6% renal replacement therapy success rate and low rate of catheters malfunction. ConclusionsReal-time, ultrasound-guided, infraclavicular axillary vein cannulation for renal replacement therapy in the critical care unit is a reliable method of dual-lumen hemodialysis catheter insertion and can be considered a reasonable alternative to jugular and femoral routes in special clinical circumstances.

Flushing and Locking of Venous Catheters: Available Evidence and Evidence Deficit.

Flushing and locking of intravenous catheters are thought to be essential in the prevention of occlusion. The clinical sign of an occlusion is catheter malfunction and flushing is strongly recommended to ensure a well-functioning catheter. Therefore fluid dynamics, flushing techniques, and sufficient flushing volumes are important matters in adequate flushing in all catheter types. If a catheter is not in use, it is locked. For years, it has been thought that the catheter has to be filled with an anticoagulant to prevent catheter occlusion. Heparin has played a key role in locking venous catheters. However, the high number of risks associated with heparin forces us to look for alternatives. A long time ago, 0.9% sodium chloride was already introduced as locking solution in peripheral cannulas. More recently, a 0.9% sodium chloride lock has also been investigated in other types of catheters. Thrombolytic agents have also been studied as a locking solution because their antithrombotic effect was suggested as superior to heparin. Other catheter lock solutions focus on the anti-infective properties of the locks such as antibiotics and chelating agents. Still, the most effective locking solution will depend on the catheter type and the patient's condition.

A Novel Technique for Laparoscopic Salvage of CAPD Catheter Malfunction and Migration: The Santosh-PGI Hanging Loop Technique.

CAPD catheter malfunction is a common problem. Obstruction due to wrapping by appendices epiploicae of sigmoid colon has been rarely reported in literature. We report a case of CAPD catheter malfunction caused by catheter tip migration and obstruction by appendices epiploicae that was successfully managed by laparoscopic hanging loop technique. This case report highlights the ease with which epiplopexy can be performed and catheter tip migration can be prevented by this innovative laparoscopic procedure.