The epidemiology of peripheral vein infusion thrombophlebitis: a critical review.
We critically assessed studies on the clinical importance, diagnosis, incidence, and pathogenesis of peripheral vein infusion thrombophlebitis, including catheter-related and patient-related risk factors. We reviewed the evidence linking thrombosis, particularly prothrombotic states such as the inherited thrombophilic disorders, with peripheral vein infusion thrombophlebitis. Peripheral vein infusion thrombophlebitis occurs in 25% to 35% of hospitalized patients with peripheral intravenous catheters and has both patient-related implications (e.g., sepsis) and economic consequences (e.g., extra nursing time). Although duration of catheterization, catheter-related infection, and catheter material are important risk factors for peripheral vein infusion thrombophlebitis, patient-related risk factors are not well elucidated.
Tagalakis
Vicky
V
Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Community Studies, Sir Mortimer B. Davis Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, Canada. vicky.tagalakis@mail.mcgill.ca
Kahn
Susan R
SR
Libman
Michael
M
Blostein
Mark
M
D002406:Catheterization, Peripheral / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D011322:Primary Prevention / Q000379:methods; D011379:Prognosis; D012307:Risk Factors; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000209:etiology