COMPLICATIONS OF HICKMAN-BROVIAC CATHETERS

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  • 1 January 1985
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 161  (3) , 257-260
Abstract
Although Hickman-Broviac catheters have improved the care of patients with leukemia and patients using catheters for hyperalimentation, they are associated with a substantial morbidity. A 34% complication rate was experienced. Some of these complications may be relieved with new therapy (streptokinase) and some of the intraoperative problems can be prevented by a more careful technique. The cephalic vein cutdown technique remains the procedure of choice. Due to the morbidity of placement, every attempt should be made to save a catheter, as in type 1 infections. Type 2 infections should be the major indication for removal of the catheters.