If you’ve been hospitalized, chances are you’ve had an intravenous catheterization. These small plastic tubes deliver medicine, fluids, and, sometimes, even nutrients directly into your bloodstream. Around 33% to 67% of patients have a peripheral IV inserted during their hospital stay. While IVs are lifesavers, they can sometimes leave lasting effects.
It’s not just the immediate pinch of the needle or soreness during use that causes pain. For some, catheters can cause problems that linger long after removal, such as inflammation, damaged veins, and difficulty with future blood draws or medical procedures.
Due to these complications, those who rely on frequent or long-term IVs may face additional challenges and frustrations. Let’s shed some light on the lesser-known side of IVs and discuss ways to protect your veins for the long haul.
The Long-Term Effects of IV Catheterization
Inflammation and Vein Damage
Intravenous catheters (IVs) temporarily disrupt the blood flow of your veins. While veins are incredibly resilient, complications like inflammation and damage can sometimes occur after IV removal.
One common IV-related vein issue is phlebitis, an inflammation in the vein wall. Studies show that around 25% to 35% of patients receiving IV therapy develop phlebitis. It can cause redness, warmth, tenderness, and sometimes a cord-like structure beneath the skin.
Occasional, mild IV-related inflammation usually resolves on its own. However, repeated episodes can lead to vein scarring, loss of elasticity, and narrowing. It makes it more difficult for healthcare providers to find suitable veins for blood draws or future IV insertions.
Catheter Breakage
Most of the time, IVs function as intended and are removed after treatment. However, there’s a less common but severe risk of catheter breakage. It means a piece of the flexible catheter tube can break off and travel through your bloodstream.
For example, some catheters, like the Bard PowerPort, are made from polyurethane and barium sulfate. In rare cases, this material can break away and migrate into the blood, potentially causing blockages or severe damage.
While this is an uncommon occurrence, patients with Bard PowerPort catheters may be at risk of severe complications like blood clots, arterial punctures, and even heart attacks due to catheter failure. Some individuals who have experienced health issues and injuries have filed a Bard Power Port lawsuit against the manufacturer of the device, Bard Access Systems Inc., owned by Becton, Dickinson and Company.
Extravasation Injuries
Extravasation occurs when IV fluids or medications for the vein accidentally leak into surrounding tissues. While often causing only temporary pain and swelling, certain medications can lead to severe extravasation injuries. The Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Oslo University Hospital assesses 15 cases of severe extravasation injuries yearly. These injuries can result in blistering, skin breakdown, and even long-term tissue damage.
Minimizing the Risk From IV Catheters
While some intravenous catheter complications can’t be prevented, you can still actively reduce your risk of long-term problems. Before any catheter insertion, don’t be afraid to ask questions like, “Is this IV necessary, or could other options work?” In non-urgent situations, blood draws or oral medications might be possible alternatives.
If an IV is required, inquire if a smaller catheter can be used. The size of a catheter is determined by the patient’s condition, age, and urgency. Most intravenous catheters range from 14 to 24 gauge. An ideal size for patients aged 13 to 18 is 20 to 22 gauge, while 16 to 20 gauge is often suitable for those aged 18 and older. Smaller sizes are less damaging to veins, especially when rapid fluid delivery isn’t needed.
Always speak up if you notice pain, redness, swelling, or leakage at the IV site. Reporting these signs to your nurse or doctor can immediately minimize complications. If you experience injuries due to device failure, as seen in the Bard PowerPort example, you may have the right to take legal action against the concerned party. In this case, 116 cases are pending consolidation, as per TorHoerman Law.
By advocating for the best possible IV care, you’re helping to drive improvements in medical practices that will benefit all patients in the long run.
FAQs
What Is the Most Common Complication of a Central Venous Catheter?
The most common central venous catheter (CVC) complication is infection. These infections are called central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). Bacteria or other microbes can enter the bloodstream through the catheter insertion site or travel along the line.
Which Vein Is Commonly Used for Intravenous Catheterization?
The cephalic vein (along the outer side of the arm) and the basilic vein (along the inner side of the arm) are commonly used for intravenous catheterization. The veins on the back of the hand (dorsal venous network) are also frequently used. These locations offer the most minor interference with movement and a lower risk of complications like phlebitis (vein inflammation) compared to veins in the lower body.
How Do You Insert an IV Catheter?
First, choose a suitable vein and apply a tourniquet to make the vein more visible. Clean the insertion site thoroughly with an antiseptic. Stabilize the vein by holding the skin taut below the insertion point. Carefully insert the IV catheter needle (bevel up) at a shallow angle. Once you see a flashback of blood, lower the angle and advance the plastic catheter into the vein.
What Is the Difference Between an IV Cannula and an IV Catheter?
The cannula is a short, plastic tube that’s initially inserted into the vein with a needle. The IV catheter is a longer, flexible tube that is threaded through the cannula and further into the vein.
Perhaps you have started reading this blog thinking the side effects of IV catheters were no big deal or a temporary inconvenience at most. Hopefully, now you understand the lasting impact even a routine catheter can have on your veins and future medical care.
These problems can make future treatments more challenging, especially for those with chronic conditions or older adults. That’s why it’s essential to minimize unnecessary IV use and advocate for smaller catheters whenever possible, reducing the risk of long-term damage.