Large bore catheters (n = 42, 31 patients) which remained in position for a period of between 2 to 73 days ( days/patients) were investigated with raster electron-microscopy (scanning electron micrographic: SEM) and for bacterial colonisation. Microbiological findings indicated colonisation of the intravascular large bore catheters in 8 out of 42 catheters (19%). SEM morphological investigation showed bacterial colonisation in only 3 catheters (7%). The 3 different catheter materials had small deposits of fibrin and protein on the inner and outer surfaces after 2 days. This second layer covered the entire surface after 3 days and increased to a thickness of 3-60 μm in the following days. In this matrix erythrocytes, thrombocytes and granulocytes could also been seen.
BambauerR, JutzlerGA. Transcutaneous insertion of the Shaldon catheter through the internal jugular vein as access for acute hemodialysis. Dial Transpl1982; 11: 766–73.
2.
CheesbroughJS, ElliottTSJ, FinchRG. A morphological study of bacterial colonisation of intravenous cannulae. Med Microbiol1985; 19: 149–57.
