Defined by Infusion Nurses Society, a midline is a vascular access device intended for placement into a peripheral vein in the upper arm; basilic, cephalic, or one of the two brachial veins, with the internal tip found level at or near the level of the axilla and distal to the shoulder. Standard midlines can range from 10 to 20 centimeters in length and are usually offered single lumen or double lumen options. They are typically used for infusion and short-term intravenous therapies.
Midlines are becoming increasingly popular for several reasons. They offer a cost-effective alternative to peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and while complications can and do occur, midlines are often associated with fewer bloodstream infections and catheter occlusions compared to PICCs.
Promoting vein preservation by using fewer catheters and insertion attempts, midlines are appealing for patients needing long-term intravenous therapy. Recent evidence shows a lower risk of mechanical or infectious complications with midlines compared to PIVCs, simplifying procedures for healthcare providers and ensuring patient safety.
Midline catheters offer cost-effective benefits to healthcare professionals, as highlighted in a study in the Journal of Emergency Medicine. Research indicates they can reduce reliance on central venous catheters (CVCs) and lower resource consumption, thus promoting their economic efficiency. These findings support the growing adoption of midline catheters in clinical practice.
The Health Line CT Midline Catheter is designed for short-term peripheral access to the venous system to facilitate intravenous therapy, medication administration, and blood product infusion. Utilizing a single midline IV access can fulfill infusion therapy needs for patients, in that way minimizing the need for multiple needle sticks and improving patient comfort. Additionally, our midline peripheral catheter offers superior reduction in vein inflammation compared to a short peripheral catheter and does not need X-ray confirmation post-placement. Available in both single and dual lumen configurations, the Health Line CT Midline Catheter is the preferred choice for clinicians and patients seeking dependable short-term vascular access.
References:
Salempoor, H. and Zamanian, K. (2023, December 12) Midline Catheters Show Fastest Growth Rate In Vascular Access: A Global Market Analysis. Med Device Online. https://www.meddeviceonline.com/doc/midline-catheters-show-fastest-growth-rate-in-vascular-access-a-global-market-analysis-0001
Villalba, M. et al., (2022, December 12) Usefulness of Midline Catheters versus Peripheral Venous Catheters in an Inpatient Unit: A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9680301/
Bundgaard, E. (2021, January) The efficacy of midline catheters—a prospective, randomized, active-controlled study. The Journal of Emergency Medicine. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1201971220322578
Chopra, V. et al., (2019, September 28) Variation in use and outcomes related to midline catheters: results from a multicentre pilot study. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6860966/
Adams, D. et al., (2016 September) The Midline Catheter: A Clinical Review. The Journal of Emergency Medicine. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0736467916301597
2 Comments
How long should a patient be monitored after insertion of a piccline?
Dear MaryLou, The frequency of monitoring should depend on various patient factors, including age, condition, and cognition, as well as the type and frequency of infusions, and the healthcare setting. More information can be found in the Journal of Infusion Nursing (refer to Standard 42, Vascular Access Device Assessment, Care, and Dressing Changes)
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