A retrospective, comparative, clinical study of occlusion rate of peripherally inserted central catheters fabricated of poly(vinyl alcohol)-based hydrogel composite.

Thrombotic accumulation is associated with surface interactions between blood proteins and vascular access devices. Catheter occlusion results from this process, and is a costly, common, occurrence with peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs). Hydrophilic catheter materials exhibit antithrombotic properties. This retrospective study evaluates the occurrence of catheter occlusion of PICCs constructed of a poly(vinyl alcohol)-based hydrogel composite known as hydrophilic biomaterial (HBM), compared to thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) control devices. A total of 121 PICCs, 60 HBM and 61 TPU, were placed in patients with a clinical need and were reviewed for the occurrence of catheter occlusion. The records review found that occlusions occurred in 0/60 (0.0%) of the HBM PICCs and 13/61 (21.3%) of TPU PICCs (p = 0.001). HBM exhibits favorable qualities for vascular access, most importantly its extreme hydrophilicity. Clinically, this may be responsible for the reduction in PICC occlusions, which could improve patient outcomes.