Clinical evaluation of a positive pressure device to prevent central venous catheter occlusion: results of a pilot study.

One of the complications related to central venous catheters is occlusion secondary to thrombus formation within or surrounding the catheter lumen. Historically, methods to prevent these occlusions have included vigorous flushing, coordinated flushing-clamping techniques, and antithrombotic prophylaxis using low-dose warfarin or low molecular weight heparin. Positive displacement devices recently have become available that prevent retrograde blood flow and consequently reduce the risk of thrombus formation in the catheter lumen. Maintaining catheter patency results in fewer treatment delays and diagnostic procedures, decreased use of thrombolytics, lower costs, and increased patient satisfaction. A trial of a positive displacement device was conducted on an inpatient oncology unit to determine its effectiveness in preventing catheter occlusions. The easy-to-use device effectively reduced the number of occlusions and resulted in significant cost savings when compared to thrombolytic therapy.