Diseases
central venous catheter occlusion
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
A CVC occlusion can be partial, such that blood cannot be aspirated but infusion through the catheter is possible, or complete, such that neither aspiration nor infusion is possible. A CVC occlusion can arise from mechanical obstruction, precipitation of medications or parenteral nutrition, or thrombotic causes.
Symptoms
- neck vein distension
- edema
- tingling
- pain over the ipsilateral arm and neck
- prominent venous pattern over the anterior chest.
Causes
- mechanical obstruction
- precipitation of medications or parenteral nutrition
- thrombotic causes
Risk factors
- insertion of hickman catheters
- insertion in angiography suite
Diagnosis
- physical exam.
- signs and symptoms.
- lack of blood return or a sluggish flow
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is central venous catheter occlusion?
A CVC occlusion can be partial, such that blood cannot be aspirated but infusion through the catheter is possible, or complete, such that neither aspiration nor infusion is possible. A CVC occlusion can arise from mechanical obstruction, precipitation of medications or parenteral nutrition, or thrombotic causes.
What are the symptoms of central venous catheter occlusion?
neck vein distension, edema, tingling, pain over the ipsilateral arm and neck, prominent venous pattern over the anterior chest.
What causes central venous catheter occlusion?
mechanical obstruction; precipitation of medications or parenteral nutrition; thrombotic causes
Which medicines are used for central venous catheter occlusion?
alteplase
Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app
Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.