Techniques for declotting VAD’s

On the third day of the 35th INS conference in Phoenix, Arizona, Jennifer Estela-Stollwerk, BSN, CRNI provided us with an extensive overview of techniques used for the declotting of venous devices. Jennifer described how 42% of catheter occlusions may be attributed to non-thrombotic events such as lipid deposits. The remaining 58% are described as thrombotic.

Jennifer described the use of ethanol, hydrochloric acid and sodium bicarbonate in the treatment of a variety of non-thrombolytic occlusions.

For the treatment of thrombolytic occlusions, Jennifer describes both treatment with medication and mechanical methods of declotting.

We would like to thank Smith & Nephew Healthcare Ltd for their support which has allowed IVTEAM to attend this grand event.