Tiefe Venenthrombosen durch zentralvenöse Katheter

Infections and venous thromboses are the major complications ofcentral venous access catheters and ports. The frequency of thrombosis depends on the venous access systems used, their material, their diameters and the position of their tips. The lowest rate of thrombotic complications is seen with single or double lumen Hickman- or port catheters made ofsilicone with their tips in the lower half of the superior vena cava or in the right atrium. Antibiotics given preoperatively and heparin for at least 90 days after catheter placement must be recommended in oncological patients with a high risk of thrombosis. In case of thrombosis-related occlusion of the catheters low-dose urokinase and streptokinase can be helpful to restore the catheter's function. Else, therapy is identical to that of other types of thrombosis.