Objective Totally implantable devices (TIDs) and external tunneled catheters (ETCs) became a basic requirement in the treatment of pediatric oncologic patients. Techniques for implantation and confirmation of proper ...Objective Totally implantable devices (TIDs) and external tunneled catheters (ETCs) became a basic requirement in the treatment of pediatric oncologic patients. Techniques for implantation and confirmation of proper position vary among different centers. The article presented different techniques for sonographic guided puncture of the target central vein and confirmation of the proper position of tunneled catheters.展开更多
BACKGROUND Central venous catheterization is currently an important procedure in critical care.Central catheterization has important advantages in many clinical situations.It can also lead to different complications s...BACKGROUND Central venous catheterization is currently an important procedure in critical care.Central catheterization has important advantages in many clinical situations.It can also lead to different complications such as infection,hemorrhage,and thrombosis.It is important to investigate critically ill patients undergoing catheterization.AIM To evaluate the characteristics,such as hospitalization,demographic characteristics,post-catheterization complications,and mortality relationships,of patients in whom a central venous catheter was placed in the emergency room.METHODS A total of 1042 patients over the age of 18 who presented to the emergency department between January 2005 and December 2015 were analyzed retrospectively.The patients were divided into three groups,jugular,subclavian,and femoral,according to the area where the catheter was inserted.Complications related to catheterization were determined as pneumothorax,guidewire problems,bleeding,catheter site infection,arterial intervention,and sepsis.Considering the treatment follow-up of the patients,three groups were formed as outpatient treatment,hospitalization,and death.RESULTS The mean age of the patients was 60.99±19.85 years;423(40.6%)of them were women.Hospitalization time was 11.89±16.38 d.There was a significant correlation between the inserted catheters with gender(P=0.009)and hospitalization time(P=0.040).Also,blood glucose,blood urea nitrogen,creatinine,and serum potassium values among the biochemical values of the patients who were catheterized were significant.A significant association was observed in the analysis of patients with complications that develop according to the catheter region(P=0.001)and the outcome stage(P=0.001).In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of hospitalization time and mortality area under curve was 0.575,the 95%confidence interval was 0.496-0.653,the sensitivity was 71%,and the specificity was 89%(P=0.040).CONCLUSION Catheter location and length of stay are important risk factors for catheter-borne infections.Because the risk of infection was lower than other catheters,jugular catheters should be preferred at entry points,and preventive measures should be taken by monitoring patients closely to reduce hospitalization infections.展开更多
BACKGROUND To date,this is the first case of a paradoxical embolism(PDE)that concurrently manifested in the coronary and lower limb arteries and was secondary to a central venous catheter(CVC)thrombus via a patent for...BACKGROUND To date,this is the first case of a paradoxical embolism(PDE)that concurrently manifested in the coronary and lower limb arteries and was secondary to a central venous catheter(CVC)thrombus via a patent foramen ovale(PFO).CASE SUMMARY Here,we report a case of simultaneous coronary and lower limb artery embolism in a PFO patient carrier of a CVC.The patient presented to the hospital with acute chest pain and lower limb fatigue.Doppler ultrasound showed a large thrombus in the right internal jugular vein,precisely at the tip of the CVC.Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography confirmed the existence of a PFO,with inducible right-to-left shunting by the Valsalva maneuver.The patient was administered an extended course of anticoagulation therapy,and then the CVC was successfully removed.Percutaneous PFO closure was not undertaken.There was no recurrence during follow-up.CONCLUSION Thus,CVC-associated thrombosis is a potential source for multiple PDE in PFO patients.展开更多
The right ascending lumbar vein is difficult to detect on anteroposterior abdominalradiographs because it overlaps with the inferior vena cava on anteroposteriorradiographs.Intensive observation by medical providers m...The right ascending lumbar vein is difficult to detect on anteroposterior abdominalradiographs because it overlaps with the inferior vena cava on anteroposteriorradiographs.Intensive observation by medical providers may be a cue fordiagnosis.However,knowledge of catheter misplacement of the right ascendinglumbar vein is also necessary,because misplacement cannot be suspected withoutthat awareness.展开更多
With the widespread adoption of ultrasound guidance,Seldinger puncture techniques,and intracardiac electrical positioning technology for the placement of peripherally inserted central catheters in recent years,an incr...With the widespread adoption of ultrasound guidance,Seldinger puncture techniques,and intracardiac electrical positioning technology for the placement of peripherally inserted central catheters in recent years,an increasing number of medical staff and patients now accept peripheral placement of totally implantable venous access devices(TIVADs)in the upper arm.This approach has the advantage of completely avoiding the risks of hemothorax,pneumothorax,and neck and chest scarring.Medical specialties presently engaged in this study in China include internal medicine,surgery,anesthesiology,and interventional departments.However,command over implantation techniques,treatment of complications,and proper use and maintenance of TIVAD remain uneven among different medical units.Moreover,currently,there are no established quality control standards for implantation techniques or specifications for handling complications.Thus,this expert consensus is proposed to improve the success rate of TIVAD implantation via the upper-arm approach,reduce complication rates,and ensure patient safety.This consensus elaborates on the technical indications and contraindications,procedures and technical points,treatment of complications,and the use and maintenance of upper-arm TIVAD,thus providing a practical reference for medical staff.展开更多
Objective:To evaluate the complications of central venous catheterization(CVC).Methods:A prospective,observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center in India from December 2018 to September 2020.Critically...Objective:To evaluate the complications of central venous catheterization(CVC).Methods:A prospective,observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center in India from December 2018 to September 2020.Critically ill patients(aged≥18 years)in the intensive care unit undergoing CVC procedures were included in the study.Baseline demographics and detailed medical history were recorded.Chest X-rays and electrocardiography were performed on all the patients.Complications associated with CVC were recorded.Results:A total of 100 patients with the indication for central venous catheter insertion were included.The majority(81%)of the patients were inserted with CVC at the right internal jugular vein.Complications such as arterial puncture(2%),hematoma(4%),blood clot formation(4%),catheter kinking(3%),thoracic injury(1%),thrombophlebitis(6%),sepsis(9%)and nerve injury(1%)were reported.Conclusions:Though central venous access is preferred in management of critically ill patients,it has its risks.However,early recognition and prompt management of complications may reduce mortality and morbidity.Physicians and intensive care unit intensivists should be vigilant for central venous catheter-related complications.Suitable site selection,operator experience,and proper catheter maintenance are associated with optimal outcomes.展开更多
BACKGROUND Central venous catheters(CVCs)often cause life-threatening complications,especially CVC-related bloodstream infection(CVC-BSI)and catheter-related thrombosis(CRT).Here,we report an unusual case of misplaced...BACKGROUND Central venous catheters(CVCs)often cause life-threatening complications,especially CVC-related bloodstream infection(CVC-BSI)and catheter-related thrombosis(CRT).Here,we report an unusual case of misplaced CVC-induced emphysematous thrombophlebitis,a rare but potentially lethal form of CRT and CVC-BSI characterized by both thrombosis and gas formation.CASE SUMMARY A 48-year-old male presented to the emergency room of a local hospital with sudden-onset headache and coma for 4 h.Computed tomography(CT)revealed right basal ganglia hemorrhage,so emergency decompressive craniotomy was performed and a CVC was inserted through the right subclavian vein for fluid resuscitation during anesthesia.Two days later,the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit of our hospital for further critical care.On day 9 after CVC insertion,the patient suddenly developed fever and hypotension.Point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)demonstrated thrombosis and dilatation of the right internal jugular vein(IJV)filled with thrombosis.Ultrasonography also revealed that the CVC tip had been misplaced into the IJV and was surrounded by gas bubbles,which manifested as hyperechoic lines with dirty shadowing and comet-tail artifacts.Further CT scan confirmed air bubbles surrounding the CVC in the right neck.The final diagnosis was septic emphysematous thrombophlebitis induced by a misplaced CVC and ensuing septic shock.The responsible CVC was removed immediately.The patient received fluid resuscitation,intravenous noradrenaline,and a 10-d ultra-broad spectrum antibiotic treatment to combat septic shock.Both CVC and peripheral venous blood cultures yielded methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus cohnii.The patient was gradually weaned off vasopressors and the symptoms of redness and swelling in the right neck subsided within 7 d.CONCLUSION Emphysematous thrombophlebitis is a fulminant and life-threatening CVC-BSI associated with thrombosis and gas formation in the vein.A misplaced CVC may facilitate the development of emphysematous thrombophlebitis.POCUS can easily identify the artifacts produced by gas and thrombosis,facilitating rapid diagnosis at the bedside.展开更多
Objective:To analyze the risk factors of catheter-related bloodstream infection in outpatients and propose feasible prevention and control measures.Methods:The medical records of outpatients with peripherally inserted...Objective:To analyze the risk factors of catheter-related bloodstream infection in outpatients and propose feasible prevention and control measures.Methods:The medical records of outpatients with peripherally inserted central catheter(PICC)from January 2020 to December 2021 were selected for retrospective analysis,and the factors that may be related to the occurrence of catheter-related bloodstream infection were analyzed by logistic multivariate analysis.Results:The incidence rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection among the enrolled patients was 4.78%.It was found that age,duration of catheterization,catheter site,number of punctures,and diabetes were all risk factors for catheter-associated bloodstream infection,and the differences were statistically significant.Conclusion:Age,duration of catheterization,catheterization site,and diabetes are all risk factors for catheter-related bloodstream infection,and medical personnel should fully understand and learn more about these risk factors and actively develop countermeasures to reduce the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infection.展开更多
Point of care ultrasonography(POCUS)has evolved to become the fifth pillar of the conventional physical examination,and use of POCUS protocols have significantly decreased procedure complications and time to diagnose....Point of care ultrasonography(POCUS)has evolved to become the fifth pillar of the conventional physical examination,and use of POCUS protocols have significantly decreased procedure complications and time to diagnose.However,lack of experience in POCUS by preceptors in medical schools and nephrology residency programs are significant barriers to implement a broader use.In rural and low-income areas POCUS may have a transformative effect on health care management.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization when compared to the conventional procedure. Method: A prospective cohort study was carried out over a 9-month period fro...Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization when compared to the conventional procedure. Method: A prospective cohort study was carried out over a 9-month period from February to October 2016 involving 144 inpatients at PICU of Irmandade da Santa Casa de Sao Paulo Hospital, undergoing central venous catheterization. The patients were matched in pairs of identical patients according to the levels of potentially intervening variables (age, nutritional status, puncture site, professional experience), differing only as to the CVC technique: ultrasound-guided (USG-CVC) or conventional (C-CVC). Discarding data from non-paired patients, the remaining did forming 47 pairs, matched as two related samples: USG-CVC and C-CVC groups. Success parameters: number of puncture attempts;time spent at CVC;success rate and complications. Results: In the USG-CVC group, the number of attempts (mean = 2.04) and the time spent at catheterization (mean = 11.89 minutes) were lower (t = 2.34, df = 46, t 0.95 = 2.02, p t = 3.07, df = 46, t 0.95 = 2.02, p < 0.05), respectively, when compared to the results obtained for the control group (C-GVC), (mean = 3.21) and (mean = 28.26 minutes), respectively. As to success, there was observed a significant difference (F (1, 46) = 16.6;Q (1) = 12.5, p < 005) when considering only one trial (USG -CVC = 27/47;C-CVC = 9/47), but no significant difference (F (1, 46) = 3.76;Q (1) = 3.56, p > 0.05) when considering several attempts. Complications were found less frequently in the USG-CVC group (3/47) than in the CVC-C (13/47), (F (1, 46) = 8.24;Q (1) = 7.14, p < 0.05). Conclusion: USG-CVC was found to be more effective than the conventional technique, especially regarding success at the first puncture attempt.展开更多
Subclavian artery (SCA) injuries associated with central venous catheter (CVC) insertion are uncommon yet lethal complications that typically require surgical treatment. This case report presents the case of a 94...Subclavian artery (SCA) injuries associated with central venous catheter (CVC) insertion are uncommon yet lethal complications that typically require surgical treatment. This case report presents the case of a 94-year-old man with an iatrogenic right SCA injury resulting from a misplaced CVC. Computed tomography revealed the catheter piercing the right internal jugular vein to enter the right SCA and then reaching the aortic arch. Emergent endovascular treatment was performed, and a 13-mm × 50-mm self-expanding Viabahn stent graft (W.L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, AZ, USA) was placed via the right brachial artery. The misplaced catheter was successfully removed under simultaneous postdeployment balloon dilatation. This case highlights the utility of the Viabahn stent graft for iatrogenic right SCA injury caused by a misplaced CVC and presents some insights and tips for a safer procedure.展开更多
<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction:</span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Peripheral venous ca...<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction:</span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Peripheral venous catheters (PVCs) are the most commonly used medical devices in hospitals for the administration of medications. Their use can lead to complications of varying severity. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Determine the incidence and factors associated with the occurrence of PVC-related complications. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> This was a two-month prospective observational study conducted in the Medical Emergency Department (MED) of Yalgado Ouedraogo Teaching Hospital in Ouagadougou. All patients admitted during the study period who had a PVC inserted and removed were included in the study. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with the occurrence of complications. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> In total, 459 PVCs were inserted and removed in 415 patients hospitalized at the Medical Emergency Department during the study period. The placement of 37.7% (n = 173) of PVCs resulted in complications in 131 patients (31.6%). For 644.3 days of catheterization, the incidence density was estimated at 6.5 complications per 1000 patient days. Phlebitis (24.0%), infection (5.7%), and accidental removal (2.8%) were the most frequently identified complications. The average age of the patients was 46.8 ± 18.9 years with a sex ratio of 1.22. The average patient hospitalization duration was 2.5 ± 2.6 days. In multivariate analysis, the factors significantly associated with the occurrence of complications after PVC insertion were patient’s state of agitation during the procedure (aOR = 12.59;95% CI = 4.12 - 38.49), placement of the PVC at the elbow bend (aOR = 2.17;95% CI = 1.86 - 5.52), multiple attempts (aOR = 3.18;95% CI = 1.49 - 6.75), administration of 10% hypertonic glucose solution (aOR = 3.67;95% CI = 1.62 - 8.33), and duration of catheterization beyond 72 hours without being changed (aOR = 33.00;95% CI = 14.19 - 76.75). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> The incidence of PVC-related complications was relatively high. The identification of the factors that can lead to these complications is relevant to the delivery of quality healthcare to patients.展开更多
Central venous access is one of the most common surgery procedures worldwide, especially in pediatric surgery. Local and regional complications as the result of venous catheter permanence time are frequently described...Central venous access is one of the most common surgery procedures worldwide, especially in pediatric surgery. Local and regional complications as the result of venous catheter permanence time are frequently described as: thrombosis, infection, edema and local cellulite, movement and loss of the catheter. Other severe complications such as endocardiac and hemorrhagic lesions are also described and considered the cause of catheter early removal. In the literature few studies have addressed vascular and perivascular lesions and complications as the result of central venous access to peripheral veins, given the difficulty of setting up venous catheterization experimental models to study blood vessels and perivascular tissue alterations after catheterization. In the present venous catheterization experimental model, rabbits were divided into two groups based on the time that the venous catheters were maintained in their veins. Group a composed of 7 New Zealand male rabbits was submitted to a 15-day treatment;and the 6 New Zealand male rabbits of group B were treated during 90 days. Both groups presented similar inflammatory conditions since there was no significant difference between groups. Therefore, the results may well suggest that the endothelial inflammatory reaction could have developed at an early initial short period and by maintaining the catheter, the inflammatory reactions would have decreased or disappeared. Aimed at studying these vascular and perivascular alterations in venous catheterization, the present study proposes an experimental rabbit model that allows the analysis of differences in local vascular and perivascular histological variations and compares histological differences between both venous catheterization groups each of them with different periods of treatment.展开更多
Central venous catheters (CVCs) are used in intensive care units (and, increasingly, in other locations) to administer intravenous fluids and blood products, drugs, parenteral nutrition, and to monitor haemodynamic st...Central venous catheters (CVCs) are used in intensive care units (and, increasingly, in other locations) to administer intravenous fluids and blood products, drugs, parenteral nutrition, and to monitor haemodynamic status. The risk of complication during the insertion or exchange of central venous catheters has been well documented. The majority of complications involve mechanical problems, although rarely it may induce arrhythmias as well [1]. Herein we present a case of peripheral central venous catheter induced supraventricular tachycardia in a young patient of acute lymphoblastic leukemia.展开更多
BACKGROUND Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)combined with spontaneous pneumothorax,is characterized by significant decline in lung function,and even cause cardiopulmonary failure and hypoxia.AIM To evaluate ...BACKGROUND Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)combined with spontaneous pneumothorax,is characterized by significant decline in lung function,and even cause cardiopulmonary failure and hypoxia.AIM To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of central venous catheters and indwelling pleural catheters(IPC)in managing closed thoracic drainage in patients diagnosed with COPD with concomitant by spontaneous pneumothorax.METHODS Retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical information of 60 elderly patients with COPD complicated by spontaneous pneumothorax admitted to the Shexian Branch of the second affiliated hospital of Zhejiang university school of medicine between March 2020 and March 2023.The clinical efficacy,complications,hospitalization duration,and costs were compared between patients with an indwelling thoracic catheter and those with a central venous catheter.Univariate logistic regression was used to analyze the causes of catheter displacement.RESULTS According to our findings,there were significant differences in the IPC group’s clinical efficacy,catheter operation time,and lung recruitment time(P<0.05).Comparing the complications after catheter treatment between the two groups revealed statistically significant variations in the incidence of postoperative analgesics,catheter abscission,catheter blockage,and subcutaneous emphysema in the IPC group(P<0.05).Univariate analysis demonstrated significant differences between patients with and without catheter dislodgement regarding duty nurse’s working years(less than three),Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II(APACHE II)scores(less than 15),lack of catheter suture fixation,and the proportion of catheters not fixed twice(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Our results demonstrated that when treating elderly COPD patients with spontaneous pneumothorax,indwelling thoracic catheters are more effective than the central venous catheter group.Patients’catheter shedding is influenced by the primary nurse’s working years,APACHE II scores,and catheter fixation technique.展开更多
BACKGROUND Central venous catheter insertion is an invasive procedure that can cause complications such as infection,embolization due to air or blood clots,pneumothorax,hemothorax,and,rarely,chylothorax due to damage ...BACKGROUND Central venous catheter insertion is an invasive procedure that can cause complications such as infection,embolization due to air or blood clots,pneumothorax,hemothorax,and,rarely,chylothorax due to damage to the thoracic duct.Herein,we report a case of suspected thoracic duct cannulation that occurred during left central venous catheter insertion.Fortunately,the patient was discharged without any adverse events related to thoracic duct cannulation.CASE SUMMARY A 46-year-old female patient presented at our department to undergo cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.During anesthesia,we decided to insert a central venous catheter through the left internal jugular vein because the patient already had a chemoport through the right central vein.During the procedure,blood reflux was observed when the needle tip was not within the ultrasound field of view.We did not try to find the tip;however,a guide wire and a central venous catheter were inserted without any resistance.Subsequently,when inducing blood reflux from the distal port of the central venous catheter,only clear fluid,suspected to be lymphatic fluid,was regurgitated.Further,chest X-ray revealed an appearance similar to that of the path of the thoracic duct.Given that intravenous fluid administration was not started and no abnormal fluid collection was noted on preoperative chest X-ray,we suspected thoracic duct cannulation.CONCLUSION It is important to use ultrasound to confirm the exact position of the needle tip and guide wire path.展开更多
Objective： Chemoport-related thrombosis （CRT） is a serious complication that causes morbidities and interruptsadministration of intravenous cancer therapy. We investigated the incidence and risk of CRT in colorecta...Objective： Chemoport-related thrombosis （CRT） is a serious complication that causes morbidities and interruptsadministration of intravenous cancer therapy. We investigated the incidence and risk of CRT in colorectal cancer（CRC） patients treated with bevacizumab （BEV）.Methods： We retrospectively reviewed 1,534 CRC patients who received chemotherapy with or without BEVusing a chemoport between 2014 and 2016.Results： The participants had a median age of 58 （18-85） years, and 60.3% were male. All participants werestratified into three groups： adjuvant chemotherapy （AC） （n=670）, palliative chemotherapy （PC） without BEV（n=356）, and PC with BEV （n=508）. The median follow-up was 20.19 （interquartile range, 14.07-27.19） months.CRT occurred in 3.8% of all patients; incidence of symptomatic and asymptomatic CRT was 2.9% and 0.9%,respectively. CRT occurred more in patients with BEV （5.7%） than in patients without BEV （2.9%, P=0.008）. Thecumulative incidence of CRT in patients administered PC with BEV was significantly higher than that in thoseadministered AC （P=0.011） and there was a trend toward increased CRY in patients administered PC with BEVcompared with those administered PC without BEV （P=0.044）. Multivariate analysis found that BEV treatment wasthe only variable that was significandy associated with CRT （hazard ratio, 2.06; 95% confidence interval, 1.24-3.43;P=0.006）.Conclusions： BEV treatment was significandy associated with increased incidence of CRT in CRC patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND There is risk of stenosis and thrombosis of the superior vena cava after upper extremity central catheter replacement.This complication is more serious among patients with single ventricle physiology,as it ...BACKGROUND There is risk of stenosis and thrombosis of the superior vena cava after upper extremity central catheter replacement.This complication is more serious among patients with single ventricle physiology,as it might preclude them from undergoing further life-sustaining palliative surgery.AIM To describe complications associated with the use of upper extremity percutaneous intravenous central catheters(PICCs)in children with single ventricle physiology.METHODS A single institution retrospective review of univentricular patients who underwent superior cavopulmonary anastomoses as their stage 2 palliation procedure from January 2014 until December 2018 and had upper body PICCs placed at any point prior to this procedure.Clinical data including ultrasonography,cardiac catheterization,echocardiogram reports and patient notes were used to determine the presence of thrombus or stenosis of the upper extremity and cervical vessels.Data regarding the presence and duration of upper extremity PICCs and upper extremity central venous catheter(CVC),and use of anticoagulation were recorded.RESULTS Seventy-six patients underwent superior cavopulmonary anastomoses,of which 56(73%)had an upper extremity PICC at some point prior to this procedure.Median duration of PICC usage was 24 d(25%,75%:12,39).Seventeen patients(30%)with PICCs also had internal jugular or subclavian central venous catheters(CVCs)in place at some point prior to their superior cavopulmonary anastomoses,median duration 10 d(25%,75%:8,14).Thrombus was detected in association with 2 of the 56 PICCs(4%)and 3 of the 17 CVCs(18%).All five patients were placed on therapeutic dose of low molecular weight heparin at the time of thrombus detection and subsequent cardiac catheterization demonstrated resolution in three of the five patients.No patients developed clinically significant venous stenosis.CONCLUSION Use of upper extremity PICCs in patients with single ventricle physiology prior to super cavopulmonary anastomosis is associated with a low rate of catheterassociated thrombosis.展开更多
Background: Nosocomial infection remains an important contributing factor for morbidity and mortality in neonates. Coagulase-negative staphylococci have emerged as the predominant pathogens of late onset sepsis. This ...Background: Nosocomial infection remains an important contributing factor for morbidity and mortality in neonates. Coagulase-negative staphylococci have emerged as the predominant pathogens of late onset sepsis. This is followed by staphylococcus aurous, gram negative bacilli, and fungi. Old studies noted that mortality due to candidemia was higher in infants weigh less than 2000 g after being exposed to risk factors. The prophylactic use of fluconazole for the prevention of IC in extremely low birth weight was first reported in 2001. Methods: Current guidelines from Europe and North America that refer to the treatment of fungal infections are included. Literature search was performed using Medline, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through March, 2016. Conclusion: Mortality was not different in early studies. However, recent studies concluded that mortality was reduced in the fluconazole arms. Risk-based approach towards fluconazole prophylaxis seems to be safe and effective.展开更多
Postoperative pleural effusion occurs frequently after hepatectomy. The risk factors, prevention and management of postoperative pleural effusion in patients with primary liver cancer (PLC) who have undergone hepatect...Postoperative pleural effusion occurs frequently after hepatectomy. The risk factors, prevention and management of postoperative pleural effusion in patients with primary liver cancer (PLC) who have undergone hepatectomy and the value of the argon beam coagulator (ABC) for the prevention of pleural effusion are studied. METHODS:A total of 523 patients with PLC at our institution who had had right hepatectomy from July 2000 to June 2004 were studied retrospectively. Comparative analysis was made to identify the factors contributing to postoperative pleural effusion and the efficacy of various managements. RESULTS:Of the 523 patients whose livers were dissociated using argon beam cutting and/or coagulation, 20(3.8%) developed pleural effusions;whereas in the other 467 patients underwent hepatectomy with suture ligation of the diaphragmatic secondary wound surface during the same period, 49(10.5%) had pleural effusion (P<0.01). The factors contributing to postoperative pleural effusion included subphrenic collection, postoperative hepatic insufficiency with ascites, duration of hepatic occlusion and underlying cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS: Dissociation of the liver by argon beam cutting and/or coagulation can save suture ligation of the diaphragmatic secondary wound surface and may also prevent postoperative pleural effusion. Pleural drainage using an indwelling central-venous-catheter (CVC) in the pleural cavity is safe and efficacious.展开更多
文摘Objective Totally implantable devices (TIDs) and external tunneled catheters (ETCs) became a basic requirement in the treatment of pediatric oncologic patients. Techniques for implantation and confirmation of proper position vary among different centers. The article presented different techniques for sonographic guided puncture of the target central vein and confirmation of the proper position of tunneled catheters.
文摘BACKGROUND Central venous catheterization is currently an important procedure in critical care.Central catheterization has important advantages in many clinical situations.It can also lead to different complications such as infection,hemorrhage,and thrombosis.It is important to investigate critically ill patients undergoing catheterization.AIM To evaluate the characteristics,such as hospitalization,demographic characteristics,post-catheterization complications,and mortality relationships,of patients in whom a central venous catheter was placed in the emergency room.METHODS A total of 1042 patients over the age of 18 who presented to the emergency department between January 2005 and December 2015 were analyzed retrospectively.The patients were divided into three groups,jugular,subclavian,and femoral,according to the area where the catheter was inserted.Complications related to catheterization were determined as pneumothorax,guidewire problems,bleeding,catheter site infection,arterial intervention,and sepsis.Considering the treatment follow-up of the patients,three groups were formed as outpatient treatment,hospitalization,and death.RESULTS The mean age of the patients was 60.99±19.85 years;423(40.6%)of them were women.Hospitalization time was 11.89±16.38 d.There was a significant correlation between the inserted catheters with gender(P=0.009)and hospitalization time(P=0.040).Also,blood glucose,blood urea nitrogen,creatinine,and serum potassium values among the biochemical values of the patients who were catheterized were significant.A significant association was observed in the analysis of patients with complications that develop according to the catheter region(P=0.001)and the outcome stage(P=0.001).In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of hospitalization time and mortality area under curve was 0.575,the 95%confidence interval was 0.496-0.653,the sensitivity was 71%,and the specificity was 89%(P=0.040).CONCLUSION Catheter location and length of stay are important risk factors for catheter-borne infections.Because the risk of infection was lower than other catheters,jugular catheters should be preferred at entry points,and preventive measures should be taken by monitoring patients closely to reduce hospitalization infections.
基金Supported by Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,No.2021A1515011267and Guangzhou Municipal Science and Technology Bureau,No.2023A03J0984.
文摘BACKGROUND To date,this is the first case of a paradoxical embolism(PDE)that concurrently manifested in the coronary and lower limb arteries and was secondary to a central venous catheter(CVC)thrombus via a patent foramen ovale(PFO).CASE SUMMARY Here,we report a case of simultaneous coronary and lower limb artery embolism in a PFO patient carrier of a CVC.The patient presented to the hospital with acute chest pain and lower limb fatigue.Doppler ultrasound showed a large thrombus in the right internal jugular vein,precisely at the tip of the CVC.Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography confirmed the existence of a PFO,with inducible right-to-left shunting by the Valsalva maneuver.The patient was administered an extended course of anticoagulation therapy,and then the CVC was successfully removed.Percutaneous PFO closure was not undertaken.There was no recurrence during follow-up.CONCLUSION Thus,CVC-associated thrombosis is a potential source for multiple PDE in PFO patients.
文摘The right ascending lumbar vein is difficult to detect on anteroposterior abdominalradiographs because it overlaps with the inferior vena cava on anteroposteriorradiographs.Intensive observation by medical providers may be a cue fordiagnosis.However,knowledge of catheter misplacement of the right ascendinglumbar vein is also necessary,because misplacement cannot be suspected withoutthat awareness.
文摘With the widespread adoption of ultrasound guidance,Seldinger puncture techniques,and intracardiac electrical positioning technology for the placement of peripherally inserted central catheters in recent years,an increasing number of medical staff and patients now accept peripheral placement of totally implantable venous access devices(TIVADs)in the upper arm.This approach has the advantage of completely avoiding the risks of hemothorax,pneumothorax,and neck and chest scarring.Medical specialties presently engaged in this study in China include internal medicine,surgery,anesthesiology,and interventional departments.However,command over implantation techniques,treatment of complications,and proper use and maintenance of TIVAD remain uneven among different medical units.Moreover,currently,there are no established quality control standards for implantation techniques or specifications for handling complications.Thus,this expert consensus is proposed to improve the success rate of TIVAD implantation via the upper-arm approach,reduce complication rates,and ensure patient safety.This consensus elaborates on the technical indications and contraindications,procedures and technical points,treatment of complications,and the use and maintenance of upper-arm TIVAD,thus providing a practical reference for medical staff.
文摘Objective:To evaluate the complications of central venous catheterization(CVC).Methods:A prospective,observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center in India from December 2018 to September 2020.Critically ill patients(aged≥18 years)in the intensive care unit undergoing CVC procedures were included in the study.Baseline demographics and detailed medical history were recorded.Chest X-rays and electrocardiography were performed on all the patients.Complications associated with CVC were recorded.Results:A total of 100 patients with the indication for central venous catheter insertion were included.The majority(81%)of the patients were inserted with CVC at the right internal jugular vein.Complications such as arterial puncture(2%),hematoma(4%),blood clot formation(4%),catheter kinking(3%),thoracic injury(1%),thrombophlebitis(6%),sepsis(9%)and nerve injury(1%)were reported.Conclusions:Though central venous access is preferred in management of critically ill patients,it has its risks.However,early recognition and prompt management of complications may reduce mortality and morbidity.Physicians and intensive care unit intensivists should be vigilant for central venous catheter-related complications.Suitable site selection,operator experience,and proper catheter maintenance are associated with optimal outcomes.
基金Supported by Foundation of Guizhou Science and Technology Department,No.QIANKEHEZHICHEN[2022]YIBAN179Foundation of Kweichow Moutai Hospital,No.MTyk2022-12+1 种基金Foundation of Department of Health of Guizhou Province,No.gzwkj2021-036Guizhou Education Department,No.QIANJIAOHEKYZI[2018]239.
文摘BACKGROUND Central venous catheters(CVCs)often cause life-threatening complications,especially CVC-related bloodstream infection(CVC-BSI)and catheter-related thrombosis(CRT).Here,we report an unusual case of misplaced CVC-induced emphysematous thrombophlebitis,a rare but potentially lethal form of CRT and CVC-BSI characterized by both thrombosis and gas formation.CASE SUMMARY A 48-year-old male presented to the emergency room of a local hospital with sudden-onset headache and coma for 4 h.Computed tomography(CT)revealed right basal ganglia hemorrhage,so emergency decompressive craniotomy was performed and a CVC was inserted through the right subclavian vein for fluid resuscitation during anesthesia.Two days later,the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit of our hospital for further critical care.On day 9 after CVC insertion,the patient suddenly developed fever and hypotension.Point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)demonstrated thrombosis and dilatation of the right internal jugular vein(IJV)filled with thrombosis.Ultrasonography also revealed that the CVC tip had been misplaced into the IJV and was surrounded by gas bubbles,which manifested as hyperechoic lines with dirty shadowing and comet-tail artifacts.Further CT scan confirmed air bubbles surrounding the CVC in the right neck.The final diagnosis was septic emphysematous thrombophlebitis induced by a misplaced CVC and ensuing septic shock.The responsible CVC was removed immediately.The patient received fluid resuscitation,intravenous noradrenaline,and a 10-d ultra-broad spectrum antibiotic treatment to combat septic shock.Both CVC and peripheral venous blood cultures yielded methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus cohnii.The patient was gradually weaned off vasopressors and the symptoms of redness and swelling in the right neck subsided within 7 d.CONCLUSION Emphysematous thrombophlebitis is a fulminant and life-threatening CVC-BSI associated with thrombosis and gas formation in the vein.A misplaced CVC may facilitate the development of emphysematous thrombophlebitis.POCUS can easily identify the artifacts produced by gas and thrombosis,facilitating rapid diagnosis at the bedside.
文摘Objective:To analyze the risk factors of catheter-related bloodstream infection in outpatients and propose feasible prevention and control measures.Methods:The medical records of outpatients with peripherally inserted central catheter(PICC)from January 2020 to December 2021 were selected for retrospective analysis,and the factors that may be related to the occurrence of catheter-related bloodstream infection were analyzed by logistic multivariate analysis.Results:The incidence rate of catheter-related bloodstream infection among the enrolled patients was 4.78%.It was found that age,duration of catheterization,catheter site,number of punctures,and diabetes were all risk factors for catheter-associated bloodstream infection,and the differences were statistically significant.Conclusion:Age,duration of catheterization,catheterization site,and diabetes are all risk factors for catheter-related bloodstream infection,and medical personnel should fully understand and learn more about these risk factors and actively develop countermeasures to reduce the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infection.
文摘Point of care ultrasonography(POCUS)has evolved to become the fifth pillar of the conventional physical examination,and use of POCUS protocols have significantly decreased procedure complications and time to diagnose.However,lack of experience in POCUS by preceptors in medical schools and nephrology residency programs are significant barriers to implement a broader use.In rural and low-income areas POCUS may have a transformative effect on health care management.
文摘Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided central venous catheterization when compared to the conventional procedure. Method: A prospective cohort study was carried out over a 9-month period from February to October 2016 involving 144 inpatients at PICU of Irmandade da Santa Casa de Sao Paulo Hospital, undergoing central venous catheterization. The patients were matched in pairs of identical patients according to the levels of potentially intervening variables (age, nutritional status, puncture site, professional experience), differing only as to the CVC technique: ultrasound-guided (USG-CVC) or conventional (C-CVC). Discarding data from non-paired patients, the remaining did forming 47 pairs, matched as two related samples: USG-CVC and C-CVC groups. Success parameters: number of puncture attempts;time spent at CVC;success rate and complications. Results: In the USG-CVC group, the number of attempts (mean = 2.04) and the time spent at catheterization (mean = 11.89 minutes) were lower (t = 2.34, df = 46, t 0.95 = 2.02, p t = 3.07, df = 46, t 0.95 = 2.02, p < 0.05), respectively, when compared to the results obtained for the control group (C-GVC), (mean = 3.21) and (mean = 28.26 minutes), respectively. As to success, there was observed a significant difference (F (1, 46) = 16.6;Q (1) = 12.5, p < 005) when considering only one trial (USG -CVC = 27/47;C-CVC = 9/47), but no significant difference (F (1, 46) = 3.76;Q (1) = 3.56, p > 0.05) when considering several attempts. Complications were found less frequently in the USG-CVC group (3/47) than in the CVC-C (13/47), (F (1, 46) = 8.24;Q (1) = 7.14, p < 0.05). Conclusion: USG-CVC was found to be more effective than the conventional technique, especially regarding success at the first puncture attempt.
文摘Subclavian artery (SCA) injuries associated with central venous catheter (CVC) insertion are uncommon yet lethal complications that typically require surgical treatment. This case report presents the case of a 94-year-old man with an iatrogenic right SCA injury resulting from a misplaced CVC. Computed tomography revealed the catheter piercing the right internal jugular vein to enter the right SCA and then reaching the aortic arch. Emergent endovascular treatment was performed, and a 13-mm × 50-mm self-expanding Viabahn stent graft (W.L. Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, AZ, USA) was placed via the right brachial artery. The misplaced catheter was successfully removed under simultaneous postdeployment balloon dilatation. This case highlights the utility of the Viabahn stent graft for iatrogenic right SCA injury caused by a misplaced CVC and presents some insights and tips for a safer procedure.
文摘<b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Introduction:</span></b><span style="font-family:""><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Peripheral venous catheters (PVCs) are the most commonly used medical devices in hospitals for the administration of medications. Their use can lead to complications of varying severity. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Objective:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> Determine the incidence and factors associated with the occurrence of PVC-related complications. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Methods:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> This was a two-month prospective observational study conducted in the Medical Emergency Department (MED) of Yalgado Ouedraogo Teaching Hospital in Ouagadougou. All patients admitted during the study period who had a PVC inserted and removed were included in the study. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with the occurrence of complications. </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Results:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> In total, 459 PVCs were inserted and removed in 415 patients hospitalized at the Medical Emergency Department during the study period. The placement of 37.7% (n = 173) of PVCs resulted in complications in 131 patients (31.6%). For 644.3 days of catheterization, the incidence density was estimated at 6.5 complications per 1000 patient days. Phlebitis (24.0%), infection (5.7%), and accidental removal (2.8%) were the most frequently identified complications. The average age of the patients was 46.8 ± 18.9 years with a sex ratio of 1.22. The average patient hospitalization duration was 2.5 ± 2.6 days. In multivariate analysis, the factors significantly associated with the occurrence of complications after PVC insertion were patient’s state of agitation during the procedure (aOR = 12.59;95% CI = 4.12 - 38.49), placement of the PVC at the elbow bend (aOR = 2.17;95% CI = 1.86 - 5.52), multiple attempts (aOR = 3.18;95% CI = 1.49 - 6.75), administration of 10% hypertonic glucose solution (aOR = 3.67;95% CI = 1.62 - 8.33), and duration of catheterization beyond 72 hours without being changed (aOR = 33.00;95% CI = 14.19 - 76.75). </span><b><span style="font-family:Verdana;">Conclusion:</span></b><span style="font-family:Verdana;"> The incidence of PVC-related complications was relatively high. The identification of the factors that can lead to these complications is relevant to the delivery of quality healthcare to patients.
文摘Central venous access is one of the most common surgery procedures worldwide, especially in pediatric surgery. Local and regional complications as the result of venous catheter permanence time are frequently described as: thrombosis, infection, edema and local cellulite, movement and loss of the catheter. Other severe complications such as endocardiac and hemorrhagic lesions are also described and considered the cause of catheter early removal. In the literature few studies have addressed vascular and perivascular lesions and complications as the result of central venous access to peripheral veins, given the difficulty of setting up venous catheterization experimental models to study blood vessels and perivascular tissue alterations after catheterization. In the present venous catheterization experimental model, rabbits were divided into two groups based on the time that the venous catheters were maintained in their veins. Group a composed of 7 New Zealand male rabbits was submitted to a 15-day treatment;and the 6 New Zealand male rabbits of group B were treated during 90 days. Both groups presented similar inflammatory conditions since there was no significant difference between groups. Therefore, the results may well suggest that the endothelial inflammatory reaction could have developed at an early initial short period and by maintaining the catheter, the inflammatory reactions would have decreased or disappeared. Aimed at studying these vascular and perivascular alterations in venous catheterization, the present study proposes an experimental rabbit model that allows the analysis of differences in local vascular and perivascular histological variations and compares histological differences between both venous catheterization groups each of them with different periods of treatment.
文摘Central venous catheters (CVCs) are used in intensive care units (and, increasingly, in other locations) to administer intravenous fluids and blood products, drugs, parenteral nutrition, and to monitor haemodynamic status. The risk of complication during the insertion or exchange of central venous catheters has been well documented. The majority of complications involve mechanical problems, although rarely it may induce arrhythmias as well [1]. Herein we present a case of peripheral central venous catheter induced supraventricular tachycardia in a young patient of acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
文摘BACKGROUND Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)combined with spontaneous pneumothorax,is characterized by significant decline in lung function,and even cause cardiopulmonary failure and hypoxia.AIM To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of central venous catheters and indwelling pleural catheters(IPC)in managing closed thoracic drainage in patients diagnosed with COPD with concomitant by spontaneous pneumothorax.METHODS Retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical information of 60 elderly patients with COPD complicated by spontaneous pneumothorax admitted to the Shexian Branch of the second affiliated hospital of Zhejiang university school of medicine between March 2020 and March 2023.The clinical efficacy,complications,hospitalization duration,and costs were compared between patients with an indwelling thoracic catheter and those with a central venous catheter.Univariate logistic regression was used to analyze the causes of catheter displacement.RESULTS According to our findings,there were significant differences in the IPC group’s clinical efficacy,catheter operation time,and lung recruitment time(P<0.05).Comparing the complications after catheter treatment between the two groups revealed statistically significant variations in the incidence of postoperative analgesics,catheter abscission,catheter blockage,and subcutaneous emphysema in the IPC group(P<0.05).Univariate analysis demonstrated significant differences between patients with and without catheter dislodgement regarding duty nurse’s working years(less than three),Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II(APACHE II)scores(less than 15),lack of catheter suture fixation,and the proportion of catheters not fixed twice(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Our results demonstrated that when treating elderly COPD patients with spontaneous pneumothorax,indwelling thoracic catheters are more effective than the central venous catheter group.Patients’catheter shedding is influenced by the primary nurse’s working years,APACHE II scores,and catheter fixation technique.
文摘BACKGROUND Central venous catheter insertion is an invasive procedure that can cause complications such as infection,embolization due to air or blood clots,pneumothorax,hemothorax,and,rarely,chylothorax due to damage to the thoracic duct.Herein,we report a case of suspected thoracic duct cannulation that occurred during left central venous catheter insertion.Fortunately,the patient was discharged without any adverse events related to thoracic duct cannulation.CASE SUMMARY A 46-year-old female patient presented at our department to undergo cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.During anesthesia,we decided to insert a central venous catheter through the left internal jugular vein because the patient already had a chemoport through the right central vein.During the procedure,blood reflux was observed when the needle tip was not within the ultrasound field of view.We did not try to find the tip;however,a guide wire and a central venous catheter were inserted without any resistance.Subsequently,when inducing blood reflux from the distal port of the central venous catheter,only clear fluid,suspected to be lymphatic fluid,was regurgitated.Further,chest X-ray revealed an appearance similar to that of the path of the thoracic duct.Given that intravenous fluid administration was not started and no abnormal fluid collection was noted on preoperative chest X-ray,we suspected thoracic duct cannulation.CONCLUSION It is important to use ultrasound to confirm the exact position of the needle tip and guide wire path.
基金supported by a grant from the Asan Institute for Life Sciences, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea (No. 2016-0733)
文摘Objective： Chemoport-related thrombosis （CRT） is a serious complication that causes morbidities and interruptsadministration of intravenous cancer therapy. We investigated the incidence and risk of CRT in colorectal cancer（CRC） patients treated with bevacizumab （BEV）.Methods： We retrospectively reviewed 1,534 CRC patients who received chemotherapy with or without BEVusing a chemoport between 2014 and 2016.Results： The participants had a median age of 58 （18-85） years, and 60.3% were male. All participants werestratified into three groups： adjuvant chemotherapy （AC） （n=670）, palliative chemotherapy （PC） without BEV（n=356）, and PC with BEV （n=508）. The median follow-up was 20.19 （interquartile range, 14.07-27.19） months.CRT occurred in 3.8% of all patients; incidence of symptomatic and asymptomatic CRT was 2.9% and 0.9%,respectively. CRT occurred more in patients with BEV （5.7%） than in patients without BEV （2.9%, P=0.008）. Thecumulative incidence of CRT in patients administered PC with BEV was significantly higher than that in thoseadministered AC （P=0.011） and there was a trend toward increased CRY in patients administered PC with BEVcompared with those administered PC without BEV （P=0.044）. Multivariate analysis found that BEV treatment wasthe only variable that was significandy associated with CRT （hazard ratio, 2.06; 95% confidence interval, 1.24-3.43;P=0.006）.Conclusions： BEV treatment was significandy associated with increased incidence of CRT in CRC patients.
文摘BACKGROUND There is risk of stenosis and thrombosis of the superior vena cava after upper extremity central catheter replacement.This complication is more serious among patients with single ventricle physiology,as it might preclude them from undergoing further life-sustaining palliative surgery.AIM To describe complications associated with the use of upper extremity percutaneous intravenous central catheters(PICCs)in children with single ventricle physiology.METHODS A single institution retrospective review of univentricular patients who underwent superior cavopulmonary anastomoses as their stage 2 palliation procedure from January 2014 until December 2018 and had upper body PICCs placed at any point prior to this procedure.Clinical data including ultrasonography,cardiac catheterization,echocardiogram reports and patient notes were used to determine the presence of thrombus or stenosis of the upper extremity and cervical vessels.Data regarding the presence and duration of upper extremity PICCs and upper extremity central venous catheter(CVC),and use of anticoagulation were recorded.RESULTS Seventy-six patients underwent superior cavopulmonary anastomoses,of which 56(73%)had an upper extremity PICC at some point prior to this procedure.Median duration of PICC usage was 24 d(25%,75%:12,39).Seventeen patients(30%)with PICCs also had internal jugular or subclavian central venous catheters(CVCs)in place at some point prior to their superior cavopulmonary anastomoses,median duration 10 d(25%,75%:8,14).Thrombus was detected in association with 2 of the 56 PICCs(4%)and 3 of the 17 CVCs(18%).All five patients were placed on therapeutic dose of low molecular weight heparin at the time of thrombus detection and subsequent cardiac catheterization demonstrated resolution in three of the five patients.No patients developed clinically significant venous stenosis.CONCLUSION Use of upper extremity PICCs in patients with single ventricle physiology prior to super cavopulmonary anastomosis is associated with a low rate of catheterassociated thrombosis.
文摘Background: Nosocomial infection remains an important contributing factor for morbidity and mortality in neonates. Coagulase-negative staphylococci have emerged as the predominant pathogens of late onset sepsis. This is followed by staphylococcus aurous, gram negative bacilli, and fungi. Old studies noted that mortality due to candidemia was higher in infants weigh less than 2000 g after being exposed to risk factors. The prophylactic use of fluconazole for the prevention of IC in extremely low birth weight was first reported in 2001. Methods: Current guidelines from Europe and North America that refer to the treatment of fungal infections are included. Literature search was performed using Medline, Scopus and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through March, 2016. Conclusion: Mortality was not different in early studies. However, recent studies concluded that mortality was reduced in the fluconazole arms. Risk-based approach towards fluconazole prophylaxis seems to be safe and effective.
文摘Postoperative pleural effusion occurs frequently after hepatectomy. The risk factors, prevention and management of postoperative pleural effusion in patients with primary liver cancer (PLC) who have undergone hepatectomy and the value of the argon beam coagulator (ABC) for the prevention of pleural effusion are studied. METHODS:A total of 523 patients with PLC at our institution who had had right hepatectomy from July 2000 to June 2004 were studied retrospectively. Comparative analysis was made to identify the factors contributing to postoperative pleural effusion and the efficacy of various managements. RESULTS:Of the 523 patients whose livers were dissociated using argon beam cutting and/or coagulation, 20(3.8%) developed pleural effusions;whereas in the other 467 patients underwent hepatectomy with suture ligation of the diaphragmatic secondary wound surface during the same period, 49(10.5%) had pleural effusion (P<0.01). The factors contributing to postoperative pleural effusion included subphrenic collection, postoperative hepatic insufficiency with ascites, duration of hepatic occlusion and underlying cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS: Dissociation of the liver by argon beam cutting and/or coagulation can save suture ligation of the diaphragmatic secondary wound surface and may also prevent postoperative pleural effusion. Pleural drainage using an indwelling central-venous-catheter (CVC) in the pleural cavity is safe and efficacious.
