Infusion thrombophlebitis: a prospective comparison of 645 Vialon and Teflon cannulae in anaesthetic and postoperative use

Abstract

A prospective study of the incidence and severity of infusion thrombophlebitis in peripheral intravenous infusions used for anaesthetic and postoperative purposes in 645 patients was conducted over a four-month period. Conditions of insertion were carefully controlled while ward management was according to standard practice. A total of 330 polyurethane Vialon and 315 FEP-A Teflon cannulae were used. The results show that the nature of the cannula was the single most important factor in the incidence and severity of infusion thrombophlebitis, Vialon cannulae being associated with a 46% lower incidence than the Teflon type. Less important but significant factors included intravenous antibiotics, duration of infusion, cannula tip damage and caesarean section. Factors not associated with infusion thrombophlebitis included potassium therapy, blood transfusion or site of insertion in the upper limb. Heparinisation increased duration of infusion without affecting the incidence of infusion thrombophlebitis.