An In Vitro Evaluation of the Red Cell Damage and Hemocompatibility of Different Central Venous Catheters

BACKGROUND: The aim of our study was to evaluate the damaging impact of characteristics of the central venous catheters (CVCs) on red blood cells. METHODS: CVCs from three different manufacturers were analyzed, including the presence of coating, tunnel geometry, length, lumen diameter, and number of lumens with two respective flow rates (33 mL/min and 500 mL/min). Blood cell damage was defined by analyzing microparticle (MP) and hematologic analysis. MPs were isolated by ultracentrifugation of erythrocyte concentrate and analyzed on a flow cytometer. RESULTS: Characteristics of catheters were not associated with blood cell damage at a low flow rate but showed an effect with a high flow rate. CVCs with a polyhexanide methacrylate coating have caused statistically less blood cell damage than noncoated CVCs. The length of lumens, diameter, and geometry of the tunnel showed no differences in blood cell damage. Meanwhile, the number of lumens was predicted to have a greater effect on the erythrocyte damage, which was revealed with the formation of MPs and hematological parameters. CVCs with five lumens caused significantly less damage to the blood cells than CVCs with a single lumen. Moreover, a high flow rate of 500 mL/min caused less damage to the blood cells than a low rate of 33 mL/min. CONCLUSION: Properties of CVCs are an important factor for quality patient care, especially when transfusing blood with high flow rates, as we want to provide a patient with high-quality blood with as few damaged cells as possible.