Catheters Pose Risk of Blood Clots in Hemophiliacs

Conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (Dallas, USA), the study was reported in the September 15, 2001 issue of Blood, the journal of the American Society of Hematology.

The study involved 15 boys, aged 4-14, with severe hemophilia who had a catheter implanted under the skin for 12 months or longer. Each of the 15 boys was examined with contrast venography. Radiologists used fluoroscopy to film the path of the colored medium through the veins. When the film was read, the researchers found that eight of the boys had developed deep blood clots in the veins near their hearts. Three boys had developed more than one deep blood clot. These results demonstrate that hemophiliacs with long-term implanted catheters have at least a 50% chance of developing deep venous thrombosis. The researchers said adults with catheter implants are also at risk. The study raises questions about the safety of long-term implanted catheter use for intravenous injection of medications or for nutrition support.

"At best, the study says we have to seriously consider the risks and the benefits of using a catheter long term,” said Dr. Janna M. Journeycake, principal investigator on the project and a fellow in pediatric hematology/oncology.




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